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Ridge Retreat Crafted With Local Stone and Natural Wood for Mindful Movement

Authors:
Pedro Couto de sousa, Gonçalo Fuso, Antonio Melo
Ridge Retreat Crafted With Local Stone and Natural Wood for Mindful Movement

Project in-detail

Nestled into a cliffside and constructed with local stone and warm timber finishes, this retreat offers an immersive experience for yoga and meditation enthusiasts seeking a profound connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
02
Incorporates expansive glass panels that offer unobstructed views and flood the interior with natural light.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes space for yoga and meditative activities.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for added durability while creating a textured visual interest.
05
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing topography, promoting a strong connection to nature.
The Yoga House on a Cliff, located in Vale de Moses, is an architectural project that exemplifies the harmonious relationship between built environments and natural surroundings. Designed as a retreat for yoga and meditation, this structure serves as a refuge for individuals seeking tranquility and introspection. The project captures the essence of mindfulness, inviting practitioners to engage deeply with themselves while immersed in the calming rhythms of nature.

At its core, the Yoga House represents an intentional approach to design that prioritizes simplicity and serenity. The architectural concept revolves around creating a space that nurtures individual and group wellness activities. The layout emphasizes open areas conducive to both communal gatherings and solitary practices, allowing for a flexible dialogue between the interior space and the breathtaking landscape that envelops it.

Key features of the Yoga House are centered around its spatial organization and materials. The main yoga room serves as the heart of the building, characterized by expansive glass walls that not only frame stunning views of the surrounding forest but also flood the interior with natural light. This thoughtful integration of transparency blurs the boundaries between inside and outside, allowing nature's presence to permeate the daily yoga practice. Adjacent to the main practice space is the reception area, designed to welcome visitors and create a comfortable entry point into the experience.

The pathway leading to the Yoga House is another detailed aspect of the design. It is crafted to weave gracefully through the existing landscape, preserving the natural environment while inviting visitors to embrace the journey. The use of local stone for the building façade grounds the structure in its setting, providing a solid, rugged appearance that echoes the integrity of the surrounding cliffs. The warmth of wood used in the interior finishes adds human scale and tactile qualities, creating an inviting atmosphere within the tranquil setting.

One of the unique design approaches employed in the Yoga House is its emphasis on sustainability. The choice of materials is deeply rooted in local sourcing, reflecting an ecological sensibility that minimizes environmental impact. This focus aligns with the overall philosophy of yoga and mindfulness, where the relationship with nature is paramount. By incorporating sustainable practices into the architectural design, the project not only enhances the user experience but also promotes a greater awareness of the natural world.

The Yoga House is distinguished by its ability to foster a sense of place, providing an environment that encourages connection, reflection, and personal growth. The careful consideration of views, light, and materials plays a significant role in shaping the overall experience within the space. Practitioners can engage in group activities or find solace in quiet moments of meditation, all while surrounded by the beauty and serenity of the Vale de Moses landscape.

For those interested in a more in-depth analysis of the Yoga House's architectural designs, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and ideas will provide further insights into how the various elements come together to create this unique sanctuary. The project serves as an enriching example of how architecture can be thoughtfully integrated into its context, offering a committed approach to wellness and mindfulness. We encourage readers to delve deeper into the presentation of this architectural endeavor to appreciate its intricate details and design intentions fully.
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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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