Yoga House Competition | 2020

Architectural Design

Collaboration w/ Caroline Moureau,
Rebecca Singbeil and Tim Singbeil

ANANDAMAYA SHALA | Valle de Moses, Portugal

In the Anandamaya Shala, guests are invited into this subtle state of bliss. The Shala connects them with the experience of the natural world as it changes moment by moment throughout the day, and at the same time harbours them from the distractions or discomforts of the elements that might interfere with their practice. The natural rammed earth walls stretch out from the mountain itself, embracing the practice space on three sides to protect it from heavy wind and providing natural thermal comfort in winter months. The dynamic lightweight facade faces the view to the south-west.

With the wooden open-work shutters closed, the harshness of the afternoon sun is muted, but dappled light still softly floats across the room, keeping the inhabitants connected to the beauty of the present moment. An internal courtyard brings more natural light into the practice space along with the peaceful sounds of the water fountain, and acts as a sheltered gathering spot for meditation, reflection, or conversation between classes. Clerestory windows can be opened to let in the breeze and the smell of the mountain air.
In the Shala, our senses are embraced and our whole being is gently engaged. We are present and at peace.

Design inspiration

The Anandamaya Shala was designed following three key elements of the yoga practice: Asana, Vinyasa and Pranayama. Each of those, with their intrinsic attributes, informed the design gestures and spatial resolutions. The Shala is in harmony with its environment and the bodies evolving within it.

Interior and material palette

"The sound of the gong calls the guests to practice. Pausing outside of the Shala there is a sense of being exposed to the elements of the mountain. I pass between two thick natural walls before reaching the entrance and experience an immediate sense of calm and protection before I’ve even made it inside. I run my hand along the textured rammed earth on my right, the wall turns the corner with me and I’ve reached the door into the Shala. Stepping inside, I find myself in a small hallway and can feel the weight of the low ceiling above my head. Seeing the open space of the studio just ahead, I move towards it and hear the trickle of flowing water. To my left, a courtyard surrounded by glass reaches up into the open air. A quiet sliver of green grass and blue sky emerge in the middle of the Shala, flooding the hallway with morning light. The source of the water sound reveals itself to be a stone fountain. Turning my attention to the studio again, I continue under the low hang of the hallway ceiling until I reach the large practice space.

There, the roof opens up into high beams above me, framed by clerestory windows. I take in a deep breath and feel a sense of release as the room expands out in front of me and reveals breathtaking views over the valley. Seated on my mat, I can feel the grounding strength of the thick thermal wall to my back as my heart opens gently to the scenery through the windows. Closing my eyes, I tune in to the soft sounds and sensations of the natural world that the Shala invites in. And then, I’m there. Bliss"

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