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Timber Structure Embracing Cliffside Views with Tranquil Zen Garden

Author:
Minos Pediaditakis
Timber Structure Embracing Cliffside Views with Tranquil Zen Garden

Project in-detail

Set on a cliff, the retreat's timber structure incorporates large openings that frame expansive valley views, while a Zen garden enhances the focus on wellness and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cliffside location enhances panoramic views.
02
Timber structure maximizes natural light through large openings.
03
Zen garden promotes mindfulness and tranquility.
04
Transparent yoga space encourages connection with nature.
05
Locally sourced materials emphasize environmental sustainability.

Chaturanga Yoga Retreat is located in Vale de Moses, on a cliff that offers broad views of the nearby woods and valleys. The design aims to connect the built spaces with the natural landscape, creating an environment that encourages mindfulness and relaxation. By integrating architecture into the site's contours, the retreat fosters an immersive experience for its visitors, promoting a sense of peace and well-being.

Design Concept

The design focuses on allowing a close relationship between the structure and its surroundings. Large openings are used throughout the building to frame views and enhance natural light inside. This openness creates an atmosphere similar to being in a forest clearing, which supports feelings of tranquility and a deeper connection to nature.

Material Selection

Attention to material selection is key in the overall approach to the retreat. Locally sourced timber is prominently used, adding warmth while providing structural strength. Stone complements the design, anchoring the building to its rugged location. Choosing these materials aligns with sustainability goals and enhances the overall experience of visitors by rooting the retreat in its natural context.

Functional Spaces

Among the retreat's highlights are a transparent yoga space and a Zen garden. These spaces are carefully positioned to improve the experience for users. The transparent yoga area allows participants to interact with their surroundings, while the Zen garden offers a quiet place for reflection. Both elements contribute to a well-rounded focus on wellness and relaxation.

Pathway Integration

A thoughtfully designed pathway connects different parts of the retreat, inviting exploration of the area. This pathway encourages movement and reflection, allowing visitors to engage more deeply with nature. Each design detail adds to a more enriching experience, fostering a connection to the environment that promotes mindfulness and self-discovery.

Above the yoga space, an expansive roof extends outward, providing shelter while framing the stunning views. This design element enhances the play of light and shadow, creating a dynamic environment that shifts throughout the day.

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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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