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Timber Structure with Clerestory Windows Emphasizing Natural Light for Relaxation Spaces

Author:
Sara Redlarska
Timber Structure with Clerestory Windows Emphasizing Natural Light for Relaxation Spaces
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The careful integration of clerestory windows and a sustainable timber structure enhances natural light and fosters tranquility, providing an ideal environment for yoga and meditation practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clerestory windows enhance natural light penetration in communal areas.
02
Meditation room features a single narrow skylight for focused illumination.
03
Timber structure incorporates cross-laminated panels for strength and sustainability.
04
Hammocks on the terrace create unique relaxation opportunities.
05
Grey-water recycling system integrated for sustainable water management.

The Yoga House project is located on a hillside facing southwest, designed to provide a calm space for yoga and meditation. The structure emphasizes well-being through its layout, which connects indoor areas with the natural environment. It promotes both individual and collective practices, allowing users to enjoy a peaceful retreat.

Spatial Organization

The building consists of two main blocks that create a natural flow between its various functions. An internal corridor links the main spaces, while an external terrace provides additional relaxation options, especially in warmer months. The entrance area, combined with a small cafeteria, encourages social interaction and helps build a sense of community among users.

Ceiling Heights and Lighting

A key aspect of the design is the variation in ceiling heights, which influences how people feel in each room. The yoga classroom has a height of 3.04 meters, supporting creativity and openness. In contrast, the meditation room has a lower height of 2.5 meters to foster a sense of focus and intimacy. Light plays an important role in the overall experience. The yoga classroom and cafeteria feature clerestory windows and sun shelves to allow natural light in, while the meditation room has a narrow skylight that controls light exposure, creating a more serene environment.

Material Selection

Sustainable practices are central to the building's construction. Timber is the primary material, chosen for its structural qualities and low environmental impact. Concrete is used only in the foundations for stability on the hillside. Cross-laminated timber panels adorn the interiors, providing a warm atmosphere and contributing to the building’s strength.

Sustainable Technologies

The design includes features that enhance energy efficiency. Photovoltaic panels on the roof capture solar energy and help make the building self-sufficient. Additionally, a grey-water recycling system is integrated to manage water usage effectively while meeting environmental standards.

Natural elements and thoughtful light distribution create a calming atmosphere, providing a space where individuals can practice yoga and meditation. This project illustrates the importance of design in promoting well-being and fostering connections with nature.

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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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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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