Embracing Earth The MIBI Yoga Centre by Elisabetta Carnevale Arquitectura De Terra

Introduction

Situated on the ground floor of a residential building, the MIBI yoga centre stands as a pioneering project in the Barcelona area, employing prefabricated rammed earth blocks—a technique not commonly seen in the region until now.

Revival of Earth in Architecture

While earth has been traditionally utilized in vernacular architecture across Europe, its use has waned in recent decades with the rise of concrete and bricks. However, the MIBI yoga centre showcases earth as a material of the future due to its low-carbon footprint, natural abundance, and recyclability.

Programme and Design

The floor plan of the centre integrates diagonal lines within the orthogonal layout of the existing building, guiding visitors from the reception area to the rear terrace. Illuminated by lines of light, the textured earthen walls create a warm ambiance, while glazed upper portions allow natural light to permeate the space. The reception area features custom-made wooden furniture following the diagonal lines, with a distinct transition between the slate-paved reception and the bamboo-floored yoga zone.

Multifunctional Spaces

The multifunctional hall, opening onto the rear terrace, invites visitors to experience the tactile qualities of wood and earth. A massage room and a psychotherapy room are strategically positioned within the centre, with the latter following principles of Feng Shui philosophy, creating an intimate and enveloping space characterized by earthen walls.

Bioclimatic Design

Incorporating earth into the design enhances passive heating and cooling, with its high thermal mass stabilizing indoor temperatures and regulating humidity levels. This bioclimatic approach ensures a sustainable and inviting environment, aligning with the ethos of the MiBi yoga centre as a sanctuary for health, well-being, and mindfulness.

The MIBI Yoga Centre stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of traditional building techniques with modern design principles, offering a serene and environmentally conscious space for practitioners and visitors alike.