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Red Roof Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Wood and Polycarbonate Panels Overlooking a Cliffside

Author:
Fíona Canavan
Red Roof Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Wood and Polycarbonate Panels Overlooking a Cliffside

Project in-detail

A distinctive red roof constructed from sustainable materials and paired with polycarbonate panels creates a serene yoga retreat that harmonizes with its cliffside setting while promoting wellness and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Red roof design utilizes eco-friendly materials for both aesthetics and functionality.
02
The structure incorporates a green roof system to enhance insulation and promote biodiversity.
03
Polycarbonate panels are used for natural light diffusion while maintaining weather resistance.
04
Rainwater harvesting system channels collected water for use within the facility.
05
The site plan integrates existing vegetation, preserving the natural landscape and ecosystem.
The Yoga House on a Cliff, known as The Red Roof Shala, is an architectural project located in Vale de Moses, Portugal. This design focuses on creating a space that encourages physical wellness and spiritual mindfulness through yoga practice. The architecture blends seamlessly with the natural environment, taking advantage of the cliffside location to foster a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.

The primary function of the Yoga House is to serve as a retreat space for yoga practitioners. The layout consists of various functional areas, including a main yoga shala, storage for yoga mats, a kitchen, bathrooms, and changing facilities. The building is designed to accommodate individual and group practices, highlighting flexibility in the use of space. The overall design prioritizes user experience while maintaining a connection with the outdoor landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining characteristics of the Yoga House is its distinctive red-orange roof. This feature stands out against the natural greenery, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. The roof is designed to collect rainwater and allows for the integration of photovoltaic panels for solar energy. This dual purpose not only contributes to the building's sustainability but also enhances its visual impact in the landscape.

The integration of materials such as wood, concrete, and polycarbonate panels reflects a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. Wood is used extensively throughout the design, providing warmth and harmony with the environment. Concrete forms the structural backbone, offering stability and durability. The polycarbonate panels in the vertical cladding allow light to permeate while providing weather resistance.

Site context is an important consideration in this architectural design. The building is positioned to minimize disruption to the existing ecosystem while maximizing views of the surrounding landscape. Paths leading to the entrance are carefully curated to enhance the journey into the space, integrating naturally with the sloping terrain.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a core principle of the Yoga House design. The incorporation of renewable energy sources through solar panels reduces reliance on non-renewable energy. The green roof system not only improves insulation but also promotes biodiversity, helping to maintain the ecological balance of the site. Natural ventilation strategies are employed through the design, allowing for improved air quality and reduced energy consumption.

The Yoga House on a Cliff epitomizes a thoughtful architectural approach, focusing on wellness, sustainability, and harmony with nature. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of this project to gain deeper insights into its innovative features and design concepts.
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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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