Yoga House: A Sustainable Retreat

Designing an Earthship-inspired Haven

Earthship structures have gained popularity for their passive solar design and minimal reliance on public utilities and fossil fuels. The Yoga House takes inspiration from this concept, addressing six human needs through environmentally sustainable building design.

One of the key features of the Yoga House is its off-the-grid readiness. The building utilizes available natural resources, such as solar energy and rainwater, to minimize its environmental impact. With thermal mass construction and natural gross ventilation, the house regulates indoor temperature without the need for excessive energy consumption. The design is intentionally uncomplicated and mainly single-story, focusing on simplicity and functionality.

The Yoga House also pays special attention to landscape and visual analysis, ensuring the building is placed at an angle that maximizes the surrounding view prospects. By preserving all existing trees and incorporating a perforated deck, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.

Constructed with minimal earthwork, the Yoga House utilizes prefabricated universal wooden trusses as load-bearing structures. The design incorporates garbage management, reuse, and recycling into both the construction process and daily living. Additionally, the house features water harvesting and long-term storage systems, as well as in-home organic food production capabilities.

Operated through wind turbines and solar panels, the Yoga House harnesses renewable energy sources to generate electricity. The house also includes a system of pipes for rainwater harvesting and an organic garden for growing natural products.

The Yoga House is located in Vale de Moses, Portugal, and was completed in 2022. The design incorporates eco-friendly technology, including materials made from long-stemmed wheat straw and other natural and upcycled materials. It prioritizes energy efficiency through thermal and solar heating and cooling systems, as well as solar and wind electricity.

The Yoga House-Earthship Retreat has been recognized for its sustainable design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2022, which honors well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Yoga House stands as a testament to the integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better and more sustainable world.