The main design concept is based on the ideas of union and also the introvertness and the 3d view that the site offers. The idea of union is imbedded in the broad context as the Gulf of Riga and the Baltic sea meet and merge. The word union also refers to the true meaning of yoga, which calls for unifying the mind, body, and the soul through it’s practice. Accordingly, the spatial union between the spaces and the program has been enabled by a circulatory loop.
The spaces also extend upwards vertically to articulate the roof and also extend downwards to create a supporing structure, acheiving a vertical union with the above and the below. The play and the ins and outs of mass and void also pull in the surroundings inward and push out spaces outwards to achieve horizontal union. The interplay of level 1 and level 2 platforms generate the interior and exterior spaces in between with the exception of the yoga space which has been fully unified with the external surrounding and fully liberated from the middle of the platforms.
Similar to yoga being an inward journey, the site can be introvertly characaterized as it is surrounded by a dense forest which prompted the inward generation of spaces with an outward spatial and visual flow to achieve union with what lies outside. The loop configuration links and unifies all spaces as well as creating a mindful flow as it connects the practice of yoga to the 24hr daily life cycle. This creates a mindfulness loop where the practices and teaching of yoga is carried spatially, flowing into and becoming a part of the secondary spaces and other activities. The unique and experiential circulation on the outer edge is achieved as it passes through multiple masses and voids which also emphasizes the transition from internal to external. The elevated composition achievies minimum footprint and site distrubance.
The circular configuration creates 360 view and access to the surrounding, providing nature based activities such as hiking, biking and bird-watching. The multi-functional space as well as the bonfire are have been designated to promote eco-tourism and community engagement as it provides a space to meet and greet with the locals, providing educational opportunities and workshops about local ecology, environmental conservation, responsible tourism. It can also form collaboration between visitors and local artisans in the form of pottery or painting workshops to offer cultural experiences and support local businesses and art.
Using recycled concrete, fabricated off site, and assembled on site, not only repurposes unwanted construction debris, and saving landfils it also reduces site disturbance, as it gets lifted and assembled at site, respecting the existing inhabitants and species at site, as well as reducing the construction phase. In turn, increasing return on investment as it will allow earlier revenue. Concrete also has a lasting life span, leading to reduced required maintenance.These characteristics combined will maximize cost effectiveness of the project as well as being environmentally responsible. Molded patterns, and color additives are some of the techniques being proposed to emphasis unique characteristics of various spaces within the program. Moisture sealing at defined areas is to elevate hygiene in support of a healthy living.