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Timber Retreat with Stone Walls and Observational Elements

Author:
Barbara Irakoska
Timber Retreat with Stone Walls and Observational Elements

Project in-detail

Constructed with timber and stone, the design integrates an observatory tower and various nature-focused zones to create a sustainable retreat aimed at promoting wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from locally sourced timber and stone.
02
Features an observatory tower for panoramic views of the landscape.
03
Incorporates dedicated zones for forest bathing and birdwatching.
04
Promotes interaction with a mix of public and private spaces.
05
Designed to reflect and integrate with the surrounding ecology.

Vale de Moses Yoga House is situated in the foothills of the Serra de Estrela mountains in central Portugal. It serves as a retreat space that focuses on well-being, community, and a deep connection with nature. The design reflects the concept of symbiosis, where different elements—including people and nature—work together to create a harmonious environment.

Design Philosophy
The design draws inspiration from Buddhist principles, emphasizing creativity and interaction within the space. This philosophy influences how the areas are organized, allowing for a mix of cultures, technologies, and generational perspectives. The intention is to create an environment that promotes individual peace while fostering a sense of belonging among visitors.

Functional Zoning
The layout includes various zones tailored for specific activities. Meditation areas provide quiet spaces for reflection, while forest bathing spots encourage visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Birdwatching sections offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. The design also features an observatory tower that provides views of the scenic mountains. Dedicated yoga spaces and seating areas contribute to relaxation and mindfulness practices.

Material Use
Materials are selected to enhance both structure and aesthetic. Stone walls provide durability and a solid presence, while timber columns and beams introduce warmth and natural texture. A recycled steel tower emphasizes sustainability, showing a commitment to environmental responsibility. Together, these materials create a tactile experience that connects users with the surrounding landscape.

The design cultivates a mix of public and private spaces, creating what can be understood as a "grey zone." This area blurs boundaries traditionally seen in architecture, inviting people to move freely and engage with their environment. The arrangement of spaces encourages exploration and interaction, allowing visitors to actively participate in their experience. Details like seating areas positioned for optimal views remind users to appreciate the beauty of nature as they engage with the architecture.

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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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