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Rammed Earth Walls and Flowing Circulation in a Tranquil Yoga Space

Authors:
Julissa Quezada, Amy Grissom
Rammed Earth Walls and Flowing Circulation in a Tranquil Yoga Space

Project in-detail

With rammed earth walls that create a grounding presence and a central circulation path that emulates flowing water, the Shala offers a dedicated space for yoga practice that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls integrate with the site's natural contours.
02
A central circulation path mimics the movement of flowing water.
03
Terracotta-colored masonry reflects the local architectural style.
04
Vertical transition spaces create distinct thresholds between environments.
05
Rainwater collection systems enhance sustainability and resource management.

CAESURA is an architectural design that connects the practice of yoga with the surrounding landscape. Located in a unique area where winding river roads meet a narrow terrain that leads to a cliff, the Shala reflects the principles of stillness and movement central to yoga. This relationship informs the overall design concept, creating a place that encourages both reflection and physical activity.

Conceptual Framework
At its core, the project explores the balance between stillness and movement, similar to how a rock can disrupt the flow of a river. This metaphor is evident in the building's form and circulation, allowing individuals to traverse pathways that inspire both motion and quiet moments. The design aims to foster balance in movement while providing space for meditation and contemplation.

Site Integration
CAESURA is thoughtfully positioned to follow the site's natural contours. The central circulation path, designed to mimic the flow of a river, guides visitors through various experiences. This strong connection to the landscape helps the Shala exist in harmony with its surroundings, making it feel like part of the environment rather than something imposed upon it.

Materiality and Sustainability
The materials used in the project show a commitment to the local context, enhancing the sense of unity throughout the design. Wood panel flooring runs across the interior and roof, offering a tactile experience that connects with the natural world. A rammed earth wall reinforces the space, echoing the landscape's shapes and providing stability. The terracotta-colored masonry contrasts with pathways, linking the Shala to nearby architecture. Sustainability is also a focus, with systems for collecting rainwater and harnessing solar energy, reflecting a responsibility toward the environment.

At the entry to the studio, a vertical, open transition space creates a boundary that blends the inside and outside. This thoughtful design allows users to feel the connection between the built environment and the natural world. The interplay of light and space enhances the atmosphere, inviting individuals to engage fully with their practice and surroundings.

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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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