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Retractable Walls and Curvilinear Form Embrace Nature in Sustainable Timber Studio

Author:
Qiu Tian
Retractable Walls and Curvilinear Form Embrace Nature in Sustainable Timber Studio

Project in-detail

Retractable walls crafted from lightweight materials and a curvilinear form create an immersive connection with the natural surroundings in a sustainable studio designed for yoga and meditation practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable walls enable dynamic interior-exterior transitions based on user needs.
02
Curvilinear form enhances airflow and connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance and a natural aesthetic.
05
Designed for versatile yoga and meditation practices, accommodating various group sizes.

The architectural project "Tents and a Hut" serves as a modern yoga studio that combines temporary shelter concepts with the permanence of traditional structures. The design centers on utility anchored in a contemplative atmosphere, fostering wellness through an interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces. The architecture promotes flexibility and adaptability, facilitating a diverse range of activities suitable for different practices, from yoga sessions to meditation workshops.

Adaptable Architectural Structure

The core of this design lies in its innovative adaptability. The structure features a predominantly curvilinear shape that supports both fluid movement within the yoga practice and a sense of community among participants. The dynamic configuration allows the studio to accommodate varying numbers of users, ranging from intimate sessions to larger group gatherings. The architecture incorporates retractable walls made from lightweight, weather-resistant materials, which enable the space to transform according to specific needs. This flexibility is rare among yoga studios and distinguishes this project from conventional designs, allowing for a responsive experience that enhances user interaction with both the space and the natural environment.

Integration of Natural Elements

This project leverages transparency through extensive use of glass elements in architectural designs, which creates a seamless connection between the interior and exterior. The design maximizes natural light, promoting a calming environment that is essential for wellness activities. Strategically placed openings enhance airflow, encouraging a connection with the surrounding landscape. The use of sustainable materials, such as wood for structural components and concrete for foundational stability, reflects a commitment to eco-friendly practices. This thoughtful integration of natural elements underscores the studio's purpose, allowing users to engage deeply with their surroundings during practices.

Exploration of Space and Functionality

The inner spatial organization of "Tents and a Hut" responds to both practical and experiential needs. With layouts that can shift from full indoor use to a mix of indoor-outdoor environments, the project invites an array of user experiences. The interior is designed to be flexible, supporting movement and enhancing the overall atmosphere for yoga practices. By thoughtfully considering how users will interact with the space, this design enhances the implementation of yoga practices, ensuring that every aspect of the architecture serves a functional purpose.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design intentions, additional insights are available. The architectural ideas presented in the project reflect a forward-thinking approach to yoga studio design that merit a closer examination.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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