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Rammed Earth Retreat With Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Light Integration For Holistic Wellness

Authors:
Fernando Valdez lópez, Omar karim Carmona nuñez, Joel alejandro Sánchez martínez, Mariel de abril Salinas hernández
Rammed Earth Retreat With Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Light Integration For Holistic Wellness

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and adorned with cross-laminated timber panels, this clifftop sanctuary harmoniously blends natural materials with breathtaking views to create a serene space dedicated to yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates natural insulation using rammed earth to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while promoting sustainability and carbon sequestration.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer weather resistance and an aesthetically pleasing finish that echoes traditional techniques.
04
The bent A-frame architecture allows for optimal integration with the cliffside landscape, maximizing panoramic views.
05
A central courtyard promotes natural ventilation and encourages communal interaction among users.
The architectural project titled "Pathless: Yoga House on a Cliff" is a thoughtfully designed space that encapsulates the essence of wellness and mindfulness. Located on a cliff, this project integrates the natural landscape with purposeful architecture to create an environment conducive to yoga and meditation practices. The design represents a journey toward personal growth and connectivity, inspired by the fourth chakra, which symbolizes love, empathy, and community.

Functionally, the yoga house serves as a sanctuary for individuals seeking respite from the fast pace of daily life. It is designed to facilitate both communal activities and private reflection, accommodating various practices that foster mental and physical well-being. The architectural layout incorporates public areas for group sessions and private spaces for individual contemplation, striking a balance that enhances the user experience.

The project’s design showcases a careful analysis of the site's unique characteristics. The zoning strategy is methodically divided, with public areas marked to invite community engagement, while private sections offer solitude for personal practices. Green spaces are interspersed throughout, promoting a seamless connection with nature and enriching the experience of tranquility. Circulation pathways are designed to guide users intuitively through the landscape, ensuring thoughtful movement connecting key spaces.

A focus on volumetric exploration defines the architecture of the yoga house. The use of varying ceiling heights creates different spatial experiences, transitioning from intimate low spaces to grand open areas, inviting users to engage with the architecture on multiple levels. This thoughtful manipulation of volume enhances the interplay of solid and void, fostering a sense of openness that encourages reflection and introspection.

The materiality of the project is another aspect that sets it apart. The yoga house employs an array of sustainable materials that not only address aesthetic considerations but also focus on ecological stewardship. Rammed earth is utilized for walls, providing structural integrity and exceptional thermal performance, while the use of wood contributes warmth and texture. Additionally, concrete bases ensure stability against the cliff’s terrain, and asphalt tile roofs offer durability and weather resistance. The chosen materials reflect a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, minimizing the ecological footprint while maximizing aesthetic appeal.

Unique design approaches define this project. The holistic spatial experience is crafted to be responsive to the emotional and physical states of its users, creating an inviting atmosphere that evolves with each movement through the building. The circular design elements, notably the central courtyard, emphasize community engagement, allowing users to interact naturally while also providing ample spaces for individual meditation and yoga practice. Large windows and openings integrate the interior with the breathtaking views offered by the cliffside location, making nature an integral part of the yoga experience and allowing natural light to flood the interiors.

In summary, "Pathless: Yoga House on a Cliff" represents a meaningful exploration of architecture that prioritizes wellness and community connection. By merging sustainable design practices with thoughtful spatial planning, the project creates a nurturing environment for both individual introspection and collective engagement. To gain a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, including its architectural plans and sections, as well as the innovative architectural ideas that inform its design, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further insights.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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