Gayatri Yoga Shala

Gayatri Yoga Shala was designed as a space for daily yoga practice, yet from its conception it was envisioned as a multifunctional gathering space. Inspired by the Wantilan, a traditional Balinese community pavilion where weddings, ceremonies, and gatherings take place. This cultural essence is carried into the project and reinterpreted through a contemporary bamboo architecture approach. At the same time, the space evokes the feminine figure of the goddess Gayatri, emphasizing openness and fluidity in its spatiality. 

The structure is built entirely of bamboo, using bamboo trusses that converge at a central skylight framed in steel. This structural system combines traditional inspiration with innovative design, allowing a wide, uninterrupted span free of intermediate columns. The convergence at the skylight creates a strong focal point where natural light enters and the space is organized radially, with the intention of reinforcing its collective spirit during yoga practice, ceremonies, or community gatherings.

Materials were chosen to balance cultural continuity, ecological responsibility, and human comfort. Bamboo provides the structural framework, grounding the building in Balinese tradition while reducing environmental impact. For the roof, alang-alang (cylindrica imperata grass) was selected not only for its deep roots in local culture, but also for its regenerative qualities: it sequesters CO₂ and offers natural thermal insulation, ensuring comfort within the space. The double-roof system adds another tier above the main structure, enhancing cross-ventilation and bringing in abundant daylight, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and reinforcing the building’s alliance with its natural context

With its clear vertical span, the structure fosters a sense of openness and expansion. The interplay of light, air, and circular order encourages concentration and dialogue, making Gayatri Yoga Shala not only a place for yoga but also a living pavilion for community and shared experience.