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Rammed Earth Sanctuary Framing Tranquil Views in a Mountain Retreat

Author:
Wv architecten Sebastiaan wouters
Rammed Earth Sanctuary Framing Tranquil Views in a Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed from rammed earth, the yoga house integrates into the mountain's topography while offering panoramic views through its large windows, creating a tranquil setting for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
Features a central cloister garden that encourages meditation and reflection.
03
Strategically positioned large windows provide expansive views of the valley.
04
Integrated into the mountain slope, allowing natural topography to shape the layout.
05
Design promotes an intentional flow of movement throughout the building.

The Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat, located in the scenic Vale de Moses, serves as a yoga house situated on a cliff. This location promotes a natural environment that supports personal growth and relaxation. The design concept emphasizes the connection between the physical space and individual well-being, encouraging users to immerse themselves in nature while practicing yoga.

Site Integration

The yoga house is carefully designed to fit within the contours of the surrounding mountain. It respects the site’s natural topography, enhancing the experience for those who visit. The building's levels respond to the landscape, using steps to guide movement throughout the space, which clarifies pathways. These thoughtful design elements create areas for quiet reflection, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.



Natural Light and Views

Large windows throughout the structure bring in natural light and frame views of the valley. This design choice creates a connection between the inside and outside, allowing the occupants to feel linked to the landscape. The emphasis on light and openness is especially important in the practice areas and communal spaces, where users can appreciate the tranquility of their surroundings. This relationship between nature and the interior enhances overall well-being.



Central Garden Feature

At the center of the design lies a walled inner garden, echoing the features of a monastery cloister. This central garden acts as a focal point, drawing circulation paths towards it. It serves as a calm retreat for quiet contemplation and mindfulness, enriching the environment of the yoga house. This unique aspect encourages users to engage more deeply with their surroundings, promoting a sense of peace.



Sustainable Materiality

Rammed earth is employed as the primary building method, honoring local construction traditions while promoting sustainability. This technique makes use of earth, chalk, lime, and gravel sourced from the area, reducing the ecological footprint of the structure. The use of rammed earth not only improves energy efficiency but also creates a comfortable environment inside. These material choices reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility and strengthen the connection between the building and nature.



The design features a blend of open spaces filled with light and intentional pathways that allow visitors to experience both physical relaxation and inner calm.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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