Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Shelter Embracing Nature with Passive Solar Design

Authors:
Anton Mazyrko, Adelina Mazyrko
Rammed Earth Shelter Embracing Nature with Passive Solar Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with rammed earth and designed for passive solar efficiency, the shelter promotes sustainability while providing a tranquil space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with rammed earth to enhance thermal stability and minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates passive solar design principles, optimizing natural light and energy use.
03
Elevated on piers to protect the natural terrain and maintain rainwater flow.
04
Features a dedicated outdoor meditation deck, promoting a strong connection to nature.
05
Utilizes local materials to ensure ecological harmony and reduce transportation emissions.

The Yoga House at Vale de Moses is located in a picturesque setting, designed for yoga and meditation. The building embodies permaculture principles, focusing on sustainability and ecological balance. It aims to create a deep connection between the visitors and the natural landscape while serving as a space for wellness and reflection.

Conceptual Framework

The design revolves around the idea of a closed-loop ecological system. Each component works together to support both the environment and the experiences of those who use the space. Elevated on piers, the structure protects the existing land and preserves the natural flow of rainwater. This thoughtful positioning allows it to blend into the site, creating a peaceful environment for relaxation and mindfulness.

Sustainable Design Strategies

Sustainability is integral to the Yoga House. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting and passive solar design are incorporated to enhance energy efficiency. Natural light is maximized through strategic openings, which help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. These features illustrate a commitment to minimizing the architectural footprint and enhancing the overall comfort of the space.

Material Application

Careful selection of local materials strengthens the connection with the surroundings. The rammed earth wall on the east side serves multiple purposes, including temperature control and shielding from cold winds. By using materials that are sourced nearby, the design reflects the characteristics of the landscape while contributing to the overall aesthetic and ecological goals.

Spatial and Functional Experience

The layout promotes interaction with the natural environment. Outdoor areas include a southern deck designed for meditation and relaxation, enhancing the connection to the landscape. Two access points facilitate movement: a main ramp from the south and a staircase leading directly from the road. This arrangement supports a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Yoga House offers a tranquil experience, inviting visitors to engage with the beauty of Vale de Moses. Natural elements are interwoven throughout, providing a setting that encourages reflection and well-being.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

`
Competition organisers

The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 23 September 2026
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 24 September 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in