5 key facts about this project
The Stone Barn Meditation Centre is located in the peaceful woodlands of rural Latvia near Vizdeme. Designed as a retreat, it focuses on yoga, meditation, and personal growth. The facility blends with its natural surroundings, creating a calm space that encourages well-being. The design concept emphasizes the relationship between individuals and nature, promoting balance and introspection.
Architecture and Functionality
The Centre is centered around a carefully restored 19th-century stone barn, which serves as the main gathering area. Originally a sawmill, this structure features wooden beams and an open layout that facilitates communal dining and relaxation. The use of stone helps connect the building to its surroundings, providing a visual link to the landscape.
Sleeping Accommodations
Individualized sleeping cells are located along the riverbank, offering options for single, double, or triple occupancy. These rooms are designed to provide privacy while encouraging guests to find moments of reflection. Each sleeping cell includes bay windows that frame views of the natural environment, allowing for abundant light and a sense of calm.
Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a fundamental part of the design. The Centre operates off-grid by using renewable energy sources, including solar, hydro, geothermal, and biomass. Traditional agricultural methods are employed to manage nearby meadows and pastures, supporting the growth of wildflowers and fostering local biodiversity. Efforts to limit artificial light enhance the night environment, benefiting local wildlife and contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.
The design reinforces the connection to nature, using outdoor pathways that link the sleeping units and encourage movement. This layout fosters social interaction among guests while remaining surrounded by the tranquility of the woods. The careful arrangement of spaces facilitates both individual reflection and community engagement, highlighting the thoughtful approach to creating a serene retreat.