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Rammed Earth Retreat Elevated Above a Cliff with Natural Light Atriums

Authors:
Artemis Papakosta, Alexandros Iakovakis
Rammed Earth Retreat Elevated Above a Cliff with Natural Light Atriums
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Elevated above a cliff, this yoga retreat employs rammed earth construction and integrates natural light atriums to create a tranquil space for meditation and practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated yoga studio offers panoramic sunset views.
02
Incorporates three gardens to enhance indoor-outdoor connection.
03
Constructed with locally sourced rammed earth for sustainability.
04
Features atriums that illuminate spaces with natural light.
05
Layout symbolizes the journey of yoga practice through a central hallway.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is situated in a striking location that features diverse topography and natural beauty, designed as a space for yoga and meditation. Its layout is intended to create an atmosphere of calm and introspection, encouraging users to connect deeply with their practice and the surrounding environment. The design concept prioritizes harmony between the built form and nature, offering a unique experience for those who visit.

Architecture Concept

The design reflects the principles of yoga, where the connection between body and mind is essential. A central hallway is a significant element of the layout, symbolizing the journey experienced during yoga practice. The simplicity of the building’s geometry helps to create a tranquil atmosphere, inviting users to engage in self-reflection as they navigate the space.

Natural Integration

The integration of the building with its natural setting is a notable aspect of the design. Open spaces with large windows and glass doors facilitate the flow of natural light and provide views of the external landscape. The yoga studio is elevated above the cliff, allowing for wide views to the west. This orientation captures the beauty of the sunset, creating a serene backdrop for practice. The elevation helps users feel a sense of separation from the bustling world, focusing their attention inward.

Functional Spaces

The layout includes three accessible gardens and patios that enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor areas. Moving through the central hallway leads to practical spaces such as changing rooms and showers, making it easy for visitors to transition from one area to another. The arrangement of these spaces has been designed to support the needs of yoga practitioners while maintaining a logical and comfortable flow throughout the building.

Materiality

Rammed earth is the primary building material, selected for its local availability and sustainability. Using this material connects the structure to the landscape, grounding it in the environment. Concrete is used in specific areas, particularly in the showers, where moisture management is essential. The warmth of wood is evident in the flooring and furniture, adding a natural touch that complements the overall design without overwhelming it.

One noteworthy feature of the Yoga House is the presence of ceiling atriums that allow light to filter in while providing views of the sky. This design detail enriches the interior space and keeps users aware of their surroundings. It encourages a feeling of openness and tranquility, perfectly suited for yoga and meditation.

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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