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Vegetated Roofs and Untreated Wood Create A Sustainable Retreat Experience in Nature

Authors:
Julia Chapron, Clément Rongier
Vegetated Roofs and Untreated Wood Create A Sustainable Retreat Experience in Nature

Project in-detail

Raw timber frames and lush vegetated roofs seamlessly integrate with the Brazilian landscape to create a serene retreat focused on wellness and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes untreated wood for a natural aging process that enhances the building's connection to its surroundings.
02
Incorporates lush vegetated roofs that improve insulation and support local biodiversity.
03
Features large glass openings strategically placed to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
04
Adopts a modular layout, allowing flexible usage of spaces for various community activities.
05
Employs passive solar design principles to optimize energy efficiency and occupant comfort throughout the year.
"The 3 Little Yogins" is an architectural project that embodies principles of wellness, sustainability, and community engagement. Located within a natural landscape, the project serves as a retreat space designed to facilitate yoga practices, meditation, and social gatherings. The design represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture and nature, creating an environment that enhances the well-being of its users while respecting the ecological context around it.

Functionally, the project is divided into three main structures, each serving distinct yet interconnected purposes. The first building serves as a communal area, equipped with expansive openings to welcome natural light and offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also encourages interactions among participants. The second structure focuses on yoga practices, equipped with spacious rooms tailored for both meditation and physical activities. The third building is dedicated to relaxation and recovery, offering a serene environment for individuals seeking peace and solitude.

One of the important aspects of this project is its spatial organization. The arrangement of these three structures is carefully planned to create a fluid connection between each space and the natural terrain. Elevated foundations minimize the ecological impact, allowing vegetation to flourish beneath the buildings while also promoting accessibility without disrupting the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the design incorporates open spaces that maximize the potential for passive solar gain, ensuring that the interiors remain comfortable and inviting throughout the day. The large windows and overhangs are strategically positioned to enhance natural ventilation, allowing air to flow freely and providing a connection to the outdoor environment.

Materiality plays a vital role in the overall aesthetic and performance of "The 3 Little Yogins." The project employs a selection of natural and sustainable materials, such as untreated wood for the primary structural elements, which create a warm atmosphere and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Plywood panels are utilized for both cladding and internal finishes, offering durability while contributing to the overall lightness of the design. The use of vegetated roofs is particularly significant, as they not only enhance thermal performance but also foster an additional layer of biodiversity, contributing to the ecological integrity of the site. Powder-coated metal is frequently used for structural joints and framework, enhancing longevity and reducing maintenance requirements. Glass elements integrated into the design provide expansive views that allow occupants to immerse themselves in the landscape, further enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

The project's unique design approaches are apparent in its commitment to bioclimatic architecture. Through careful orientation and window placement, the buildings are optimized for energy efficiency and occupant comfort, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. This thoughtful integration of natural systems into the architectural design supports an eco-friendly lifestyle. Additionally, the spatial arrangement of the buildings encourages community interaction and collaboration, which is central to the project's mission of promoting wellness.

In summary, "The 3 Little Yogins" is an architectural project that aligns with contemporary values of health, sustainability, and community. The combination of functional spaces, thoughtful spatial organization, and a carefully selected material palette results in a design that is both harmonious with nature and supportive of the human experience. For those interested in exploring the project in greater depth, a review of architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas within "The 3 Little Yogins" will offer further insights into the thoughtful strategies employed throughout the project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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