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Sensory Retreat Constructed with Local Wood and Charred Shingles in a Forested Setting

Authors:
Hyun Lee, Sihyun Kim
Sensory Retreat Constructed with Local Wood and Charred Shingles in a Forested Setting
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Constructed with locally sourced wood and charred shingles, this retreat harmonizes with its forest environment to provide a dedicated space for yoga and holistic wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber to enhance sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates large operable skylights to optimize natural lighting throughout the day.
04
Designed with modular layouts to adapt spaces for various yoga practices and gatherings.
05
Emphasizes sensory interaction with the surrounding forest environment through strategic window placements.

## Overview

Located in a forested area of Latvia, the Feel:U Yoga House is designed to serve as a dedicated space for yoga and mindfulness practices, prioritizing a connection with the surrounding environment. The project emphasizes a thoughtful architectural approach, focusing on the integration of natural elements and sensory experiences to enhance user interaction within the space.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design utilizes a distinct spatial strategy that divides the building into smaller, purpose-driven zones, each intended to engage a specific sense. This segmentation facilitates a calming environment that encourages meditation and reflection. An emphasis is placed on the flow of movement within the structure, guiding users through various activities while allowing for intimate engagement with nature. Large glass facades maximize natural light and views of the forest, creating a sense of openness that complements the yoga practice.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a critical role in the architectural expression of the Feel:U Yoga House. Primarily constructed from locally sourced wood, the materials reflect the project’s commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. The wooden components, including panels, beams, and additional structural elements, are designed for durability and weather resistance, ensuring the building's longevity. The inclusion of rainwater management systems further supports its eco-conscious approach, aligning with contemporary sustainable design practices.

This combination of strategic spatial organization and responsible material selection establishes the Feel:U Yoga House as a functional space that fosters mindfulness while respecting its natural context.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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