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Recycled Stones and Chestnut Wood Embrace Meditation in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Luca Ariedi, Alessandro Doimo, Laura Ariedi
Recycled Stones and Chestnut Wood Embrace Meditation in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat
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Constructed with recycled stones and chestnut wood, the design integrates large windows to connect users with breathtaking mountain views, creating a dedicated space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed along a vertical path that symbolizes the seven chakras.
02
Features a yoga room designed to accommodate up to 30 participants.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
04
Utilizes large windows to maximize natural light and enhance mountain views.
05
Integrates renewable energy sources, including wind turbines and solar panels.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is set within a mountainous landscape, designed to function as a spacious area for yoga and meditation. Its layout follows a vertical path that symbolizes the journey through the seven chakras, encouraging users to engage with both their inner selves and the surrounding environment. The building serves as a place for reflection and personal growth while maintaining a strong connection to nature.

Conceptual Framework

The design is based on the principles of the seven chakra system, where each space within the building corresponds to a specific chakra. The overall plan resembles the posture of a figure kneeling, which conveys openness and a readiness to connect with the environment. This approach invites users to explore their surroundings and fosters a collective sense of community and harmony.

Functional Arrangement

The building is divided into two main areas. The eastern section contains a café and changing rooms, while the western area is dedicated to the yoga studio, accommodating up to 30 participants. This separation of functions promotes easy access and encourages interactions among users. Pathways interlink both areas, ensuring smooth movement throughout the site and enhancing the overall experience.

Materiality and Sustainability

Although emphasis is placed on user experiences, the choice of materials plays an important role in integrating the building with its surroundings. The structure uses concrete with local recycled stones, laminated parquet, chestnut wood, a sheet metal roof, and a steel frame. These materials were selected with sustainability in mind. Additionally, renewable energy systems such as a hybrid pellet boiler, wind turbines, solar panels, and a rainwater collection system were incorporated into the design, emphasizing environmental responsibility.

Design Details

Large windows are featured prominently on the southern side of the building. They allow natural light to fill the spaces while offering views of the picturesque landscape. This design not only enhances the interior atmosphere but also reinforces the connection between the users and the natural world. The thoughtful balance between spacious areas and intimate settings creates an environment conducive to meditation and self-exploration.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete 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). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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