Yoga

The yoga house is located on a steep slope in the mountainous centre of Portugal. Its shape moulds itself to the existing topography, creating a subtle closeness to nature that can also be felt inside.
In the spirit of sustainable construction, wood became the main protagonist of the design and is intended to emphasise the immediate location in the pine forest. In addition, the building is elevated to create a minimal footprint and dispense with a solid floor slab. Instead, a flowing space is created between two floating levels that are connected by glass elements. The functional rooms such as the storeroom, toilet and shower are framed by rammed earth walls, creating a contrast to the otherwise transparent construction.
The shape of the building is derived from two arches that create a relationship with the surroundings. Its northern arch contains the yoga room and offers a sweeping view into the distance. To the side of this arch is a natural water reservoir, which is fed by the rainwater flowing down and cools the practice room when necessary through mechanical air circulation.