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Wattle and Daub Retreat Featuring Reclaimed Materials for Mindful Practice

Authors:
Jessica Hordern, Yanis Newman-pache, James Nixon, Jarryd Wyatt
Wattle and Daub Retreat Featuring Reclaimed Materials for Mindful Practice

Project in-detail

Crafted from traditional wattle and daub with reclaimed tiles, this yoga sanctuary invites practitioners to immerse themselves in nature while promoting mindfulness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional wattle and daub construction for thermal efficiency and natural aesthetics.
02
Incorporates reclaimed tiles from the site to enhance sustainability and maintain local character.
03
Features a dedicated zen garden designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Offers a flexible yoga studio with operable windows for direct interaction with the natural environment.
The Tula Sanctuary represents a thoughtful approach to architecture that emphasizes harmony between built space and natural surroundings. Designed as a dedicated yoga house, this project functions as a retreat for meditation, relaxation, and community engagement. Situated in a serene geographical location known for its tranquil atmosphere, the sanctuary aims to provide an immersive experience that encourages a connection to nature while facilitating personal well-being.

The architectural design of the Tula Sanctuary is centered around the concept of creating fluid spaces that accommodate the varying needs of its users. The layout intelligently distinguishes between public and private areas, fostering both community gathering and individual reflection. At the core of the structure is a spacious yoga studio that boasts expansive views of the surrounding landscape, facilitating an environment conducive to mindful practice. This emphasis on natural light and air circulation enhances the overall experience within the space, allowing practitioners to feel more connected to their surroundings.

One of the most important aspects of the Tula Sanctuary is its thoughtful integration of outdoor spaces. The project includes a vegetable garden and a zen garden, which not only enhance the aesthetic quality but also serve functional purposes. These gardens allow for food cultivation while providing serene areas for contemplation and relaxation. The project promotes sustainability through these elements, encouraging users to engage with their environment actively and sustainably.

The materiality of the Tula Sanctuary reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture. The use of traditional wattle and daub is significant, as it not only provides excellent thermal insulation but also resonates with the local architectural vernacular. Complementing this, the roof tiles, reclaimed from the site, maintain the authenticity of the build while optimizing the structure's environmental performance. Additionally, the log wall made from on-site firewood offers both structural support and a tactile connection to the landscape.

The architectural design also incorporates innovative features that enhance its sustainability. Solar panels are strategically positioned to maximize energy capture, contributing to the project’s self-sufficiency. A rainwater harvesting system further reinforces this ethos, ensuring responsible water use for irrigation and daily activities.

Unique design approaches are evident in the careful zoning within the Tula Sanctuary. The separation of private meditation spaces from communal areas is deliberate, allowing individuals the privacy needed for personal growth while still fostering community interaction. This balance is essential in creating a space that is adaptable and capable of catering to various activities, from group yoga sessions to solitary meditation.

The outdoor pergola is another notable feature that helps to extend the indoor experience into the landscape. This structure provides shaded areas filled with climbing plants, promoting a biophilic design ethos that reconnects occupants with nature. The gardens surrounding the sanctuary enhance ecological biodiversity, creating an environment that is as beneficial for the ecosystem as it is for its human users.

Through its architectural design, the Tula Sanctuary transcends the typical yoga house by integrating sustainability, community, and well-being into a cohesive whole. The project reflects a modern understanding of how architecture can foster connection, both to nature and among individuals. It challenges traditional notions of functional spaces, turning the design into an experience that prioritizes health and serenity.

For those seeking deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts of this project, exploring the detailed presentation will provide valuable information on how these elements cohesively contribute to the sanctuary's overall vision. By examining the architectural ideas that shape this unique retreat, readers can gain a fuller appreciation of the intentionality behind the project and its significance within the architectural landscape.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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