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Straw and Wood Form Open Spaces for Mindful Movement

Authors:
Hector Bellorin, Ivano Aspesi
Straw and Wood Form Open Spaces for Mindful Movement

Project in-detail

Constructed using straw and wood, the design emphasizes open spaces that enhance natural light and ventilation while facilitating the practice of yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with straw, enhancing insulation and sustainability.
02
Incorporates multiple movable boundaries for flexible use of interior spaces.
03
Strategically positioned windows promote optimal natural light and ventilation.
04
The rectangular design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
05
Focuses on fostering a direct connection between indoor activities and nature.

The Yoga House is located in a tranquil environment, designed to support the practice of yoga and meditation. The structure focuses on creating a balance between the physical space and the well-being of its users. With a design that aims to enhance introspection and movement, it fosters a space where individuals can gain both physical and mental clarity. The overall concept emphasizes simplicity and unity with nature.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout features flexible spaces that encourage movement and interaction among users. These areas have no clear boundaries, allowing occupants to move freely and connect with their surroundings. By promoting fluid circulation, the design enhances the relationship between the interior spaces and the natural landscape outside, resulting in a more engaging experience.

Materiality

In choosing materials, the Yoga House uses straw and wood, both known for their sustainability. Straw is an agricultural by-product that provides good insulation and helps reduce the environmental impact of construction. Wood adds structural strength and thermal efficiency, complementing the benefits of straw. Together, these materials reflect the project's focus on ecological responsibility while contributing to a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Natural Light and Ventilation

The design pays close attention to how light and air flow through the space. Windows and openings are strategically placed to ensure effective cross-ventilation, improving indoor air quality. This reduces the need for mechanical systems while creating a comfortable environment. The building’s orientation allows natural light to fill the interior throughout the day, enhancing the calm needed for yoga practice.

The roof extends outward, connecting the indoor spaces with the surrounding landscape. This feature invites the outside in, highlighting the interplay between the building and nature. Such details add depth to the overall design, reinforcing the commitment to creating a harmonious relationship with the environment.

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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

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