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V-Shaped Pinewood Structure Embraces Nature for Mindful Retreat

Author:
Maja Klawitter
V-Shaped Pinewood Structure Embraces Nature for Mindful Retreat
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The V-shaped pinewood structure integrates rainwater collection and photovoltaic panels into its design, creating a self-sufficient environment that supports wellness practices in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The main yoga studio is positioned at the highest elevation for optimal views and natural light.
02
Rainwater collection systems are integrated to enhance water sustainability.
03
V-shaped construction poles reflect the surrounding natural forms.
04
Zen-style gardens are designed to support mindfulness practices.
05
Local pine wood is used to emphasize ecological responsibility and aesthetic appeal.

The "Hang Around the Cliff" project features a yoga house designed for wellness and mindfulness. Located in a scenic natural landscape, the design prioritizes ecological sustainability while creating a thoughtful connection between the structure and its surroundings. A modular grid layout inspired by yoga mats forms the basis of the interior, enhancing accessibility and flow for those who use the space.

Architectural Concept

The main studio is positioned at the highest point of the house, allowing for abundant natural light and sweeping views of the landscape. This location acts as the heart of the building, enriching the experience of users as they practice yoga and meditation. Other areas, such as terraced gardens and chillout zones, provide spaces for relaxation and social interaction, highlighting the community aspect of the design.

Design Features

Large windows are a key element of the design, linking interior areas with the outside environment. This choice encourages a sense of openness and visual comfort. The use of V-shaped poles serves both structural and aesthetic purposes, drawing inspiration from the forms found in nature and reinforcing the site's connection.

Sustainability Initiatives

Rainwater collection systems and photovoltaic panels are integrated into the project, supporting self-sufficiency and reducing environmental impact. These choices align the functionality of the yoga house with the principles of ecological responsibility. Additionally, the use of local pine wood as a primary material emphasizes a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the connection to the local landscape.

User-Centered Design

The design focuses on creating a positive experience for users, with careful consideration given to indoor air quality and acoustic comfort. Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed windows, promoting a healthy environment for yoga and meditation. This attention to sound quality reduces distracting noises while allowing pleasant sounds from nature to filter in, fostering an immersive experience.

The design culminates in a terrace that serves as a quiet space for meditation, offering a broad view of the landscape and inviting users to connect deeply with their surroundings.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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