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Reflective Glass and Slate Yoga Retreat Integrated Into a Cliffside Landscape

Author:
Yumiko Matsubara
Reflective Glass and Slate Yoga Retreat Integrated Into a Cliffside Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against a dramatic cliffside, the integration of reflective glass and durable slate creates an environment that enhances mindfulness, supporting the function of a yoga retreat focused on harmony with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass walls enhance natural light while providing mountain views.
02
The structure incorporates durable slate roofing for weather resilience.
03
An arc-shaped practice studio promotes community engagement during sessions.
04
Sustainable cork flooring offers comfort while reducing environmental impact.
05
Strategically placed sculptural stones in the garden foster contemplation.

Vale de Moses is a yoga house situated on a cliff, designed to serve as a serene retreat for yoga practitioners. The architecture of this project promotes a connection between human activity and nature, fostering an environment conducive to reflection and meditation. The structure effectively integrates functionality with its natural surroundings, embodying principles of sustainability and passive design.

The architectural design consists of several key elements that collectively contribute to its purpose. The main practice studio is designed to accommodate up to 36 participants, focusing on openness and inclusion. It features an arc shape that enhances the sense of community among practitioners while allowing ample natural light through strategically placed north-facing windows. Reflective glass walls contribute to the controlled management of heat and brightness, creating a comfortable atmosphere for yoga sessions.

An entrance hut serves practical functions, housing essential amenities such as restrooms and a kitchen. Its central location ensures ease of access without disrupting the flow of activities within the main studio. The circular terrace attached to the practice area offers additional space for meditation and relaxation, further promoting engagement with the outdoor environment.

The garden surrounding the structure is purposely designed with sculptural stones that facilitate contemplation, enhancing the aesthetic and emotional experience of the space. The careful arrangement of these elements promotes a harmonious relationship with the landscape, providing practitioners with various viewpoints to connect with the surrounding natural beauty.

Sustainable design principles are at the forefront of the project, evident in the thoughtful selection of materials. The wood frame structure and slate roof harmonize with the environment, while interior cork floors offer comfort and warmth for practitioners. The incorporation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems aligns with modern standards of energy efficiency, minimizing the project's ecological footprint.

What sets Vale de Moses apart from conventional yoga houses is its emphasis on framing the surrounding views. The architecture not only directs attention inward for practice but also outward to the mountains, creating an immersive experience. This design approach encourages individuals to engage deeply with their surroundings during their time at the retreat.

The careful detailing within the architecture enhances both functionality and aesthetics. The reflective ceiling in the studio optimizes light distribution, while the use of durable materials ensures longevity and resilience against the elements. The overall spatial organization is designed to promote ease of movement and accessibility, catering to the needs of all users without compromising the tranquil atmosphere.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of Vale de Moses, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the unique architectural ideas and their application within this tranquil retreat.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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