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Spherical Yoga Retreat with Parquet Flooring and Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Dmitry Burdin, Alena Markova, Valeriya Starostina
Spherical Yoga Retreat with Parquet Flooring and Rainwater Harvesting

Project in-detail

A spherical form clad in wooden slats and equipped with a rainwater harvesting system, the yoga house in Vale de Moses serves as a tranquil retreat designed to enhance mindfulness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical design enhances acoustics and encourages mindfulness.
02
Rainwater harvesting system integrates sustainability into everyday use.
03
Large panoramic windows provide uninterrupted views of the forest.
04
Two-floor layout maximizes usability and flexibility for various activities.
05
Wooden slats used in exterior cladding promote natural aesthetics and durability.

The Pearl, located in the Vale de Moses, is a yoga house designed to blend with its natural setting. Its unique spherical shape stands out in the forest, aiming to create a space that fosters wellness and mindfulness. The design focuses on promoting a connection to nature while providing a dedicated area for yoga and personal reflection.

Design Concept

The design centers around harmony with the environment. The spherical form is an unexpected choice that captures attention and enhances the overall experience of those who enter. This thoughtful geometry fosters a sense of peace and encourages introspection, key elements in the practice of yoga.

Spatial Configuration

The building is organized over two floors that serve different purposes. On the ground floor, essential support spaces such as changing rooms, showers, and a kitchen are located for convenience. The upper floor features a large yoga hall measuring 90 square meters, free from internal columns. This open design allows for unrestricted movement and focus. Large windows bring in natural light, creating a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, enriching the experience for users.

Structural and Material Considerations

The Pearl employs a sturdy structural framework to ensure reliability. Vertical and horizontal loads are carefully balanced through rigid connections, providing strength and stability. Various materials have been chosen for the construction, including wooden slats, metal fasteners, white polycarbonate panels, wooden frames, and wooden beams. These materials not only contribute to a modern look but also enhance the building's functionality. Furthermore, a rainwater harvesting system captures water from the spherical surface, directing it into a storage tank and showcasing a commitment to sustainability.

Unique Architectural Features

One of the remarkable aspects of The Pearl is its dedication to sustainable practices. The rainwater harvesting system is a practical feature that promotes environmental responsibility. Architecture here encourages users to engage with the surrounding landscape, while also providing a peaceful environment for yoga. This combination of design and function creates a space that supports wellness and mindfulness, essential for the practice it houses. The Pearl stands as a reflection of these thoughtful choices, resulting in a functional and inviting atmosphere.

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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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