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Rammed Earth Wellness Studio with Curved Walls Set Among Cliff Terraces

Authors:
Davide Barbieri, Maria Barbieri, Stefania Monici
Rammed Earth Wellness Studio with Curved Walls Set Among Cliff Terraces

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and defined by its curved walls, the wellness studio seamlessly integrates into the cliffside landscape, offering a serene space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using rammed earth, the building benefits from natural insulation and humidity regulation.
02
Curved walls create a fluid spatial experience, enhancing movement during yoga practice.
03
A green roof supports local biodiversity while providing thermal insulation.
04
Stone terraces are integrated into the landscape, reflecting local agricultural traditions.
05
The design incorporates a phytodepuration system for natural wastewater treatment.
The Yoga on a Cliff project is an architectural design located in Vale de Moses, Portugal, seamlessly integrating into the surrounding natural landscape. This project serves as a dedicated space for yoga practitioners, providing both a functional area for practice and a tranquil environment for reflection and connection with nature. The design emphasizes harmony between the built environment and the site, allowing for a unique user experience that enhances well-being.

The primary function of the design is to create a serene space where individuals can engage in yoga and meditation. The layout is organized to promote continuous movement and interaction, with rounded forms and open spaces that facilitate flow. The shala is strategically oriented to take advantage of the surrounding views and natural light, creating a calming atmosphere that supports mindfulness and relaxation.

Unique design approaches set this project apart from typical yoga studios. The architecture utilizes rammed earth techniques for wall construction, providing excellent thermal performance and a tactile quality that enhances the interior environment. This method not only reduces the ecological footprint of the building but also establishes a strong connection to the earth, aligning with the fundamental principles of yoga.

The incorporation of a green roof further distinguishes the project. This feature serves multiple functions: it provides insulation, promotes biodiversity, and integrates the structure within the natural context. The landscaping surrounding the shala includes terraced stone formations that echo traditional agricultural practices in the region, reinforcing the relationship between the architecture and the site’s cultural history.

The space is designed with attention to materiality, employing local resources to minimize environmental impact. Wood beams support the structure, while clay plaster finishes add warmth to the interiors. Natural ventilation is enhanced through strategically positioned openings, allowing for a comfortable indoor climate without reliance on mechanical systems.

For those interested in exploring the depth of the Yoga on a Cliff project, a thorough review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs is encouraged. These elements provide additional insights into the project’s innovative architectural ideas and its thoughtful approach to creating a harmonious space in tune with both nature and user experience.
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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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