Location : Latvia

Type: Timber-frame cabin

Status: Conceptual Project

Design Approach

The Yoga Guest House project aims to create a sustainable and eco-friendly design that emphasizes the connection between nature, users, and the environment. It focuses on offering meaningful opportunities for users to engage with and experience nature. At the same time, cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility are key priorities throughout the design process.

Conceptual Approach

The yoga guest house that is planned to settle inside of the pine trees as characteristic feature of Latvia can also host the idea of tree pose by imitating the connection of the tree with its surrounding. This approach puts the human in the center, and  leads to take root to the earth and reach to the sky while also providing views to  the pine forest.

Main Decisions

Settlement:

• Located in an open, tree-free area
• Maximizes natural light and passive heating
• Solar energy integration possible

Grid Layout:

• Simple, compact footprint
• Minimal environmental impact
• Designed for quick and efficient construction

Functional Units:

• Spaces oriented for best views and sunlight
• Climate and direction influence layout

Movements:

• Centralized layout for intuitive flow
• Maintains traditional wall/roof proportions
• Designed to reduce snow accumulation impact

Mass & Path:

• Layout connects visually and spatially with the Baltic Sea

Main Spaces:

Open Areas,

• Yoga platform
• Kitchen
• En-suite bedrooms
• Shared showers and changing rooms

Semi-Open,

• Covered meditation porch

Enclosed,

• Indoor fireplace lounge
• Outdoor dining area
• Games/social area

Building Elements

• Timber-frame construction is recommended.
• Skylights, porches, and pergolas support passive light, heat, and airflow.

Building Materials

• Dark Siberian larch for walls and roof to blend with forest surroundings.
• Local OSB panels and birch plywood used.
• Cellulose insulation improves energy efficiency.

Building Technologies

• Pellet stove for heating and hot water (local production advantage).
• Decentralized ventilation with heat recovery for energy-efficient airflow.