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Adjustable Steel Pillars Accompanying Glass Panels in a Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Polpipat Naksawat, Ratasakon Chantalaksuk, Teerakan Wattanayon, Anuwat Pathomlek
Adjustable Steel Pillars Accompanying Glass Panels in a Tranquil Retreat

Project in-detail

With adjustable steel pillars and transparent glass panels that foster a direct connection to nature, the retreat offers a purposeful space for meditation and yoga in a serene Portuguese landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Adjustable steel pillars allow for precise alignment on sloped terrain.
02
Glass panels enhance natural light and views, fostering a connection to nature.
03
Modular construction enables future expansion without disrupting the site.
04
Surrounding diverse vegetation creates a tranquil environment for reflection.
05
Design promotes fluid movement between distinct spaces dedicated to yoga and meditation.

Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins is located in the quiet hills of Portugal, designed for meditation and yoga. The overall concept focuses on blending the built environment with nature. This approach enhances the calm and reflective atmosphere that the retreat aims to provide. The design ensures that visitors can connect with the surrounding landscape, thus enriching their experience while at the retreat.

Site Integration

The retreat spans a wide green area rich with various plants, including trees, bushes, and flowers. This natural setting not only improves the beauty of the structures but also fosters a tranquil atmosphere vital for meditation and relaxation. The design incorporates the sounds of nature, helping visitors immerse themselves fully in their surroundings and encouraging a deeper sense of peace.

Architectural Layout

The layout of the retreat utilizes a modular building system that allows for flexible assembly and future expansion. This system supports adaptability, meaning more units can be added over time without disrupting the overall landscape. Each area within the retreat serves a specific purpose while maintaining a cohesive flow, allowing for easy movement throughout the space.

Structural Features

Specific technical elements were chosen to ensure usability and stability. Steel bolts connect various structural elements, while wood bars support the roofing. Roofs are built using rectangular bars, forming an open space that feels light. The integration of glass panels within steel frames maintains a clear view to the outside, creating a firm connection between indoor spaces and nature.

Adjustable pillars are a key aspect of the design, providing stability regardless of the terrain. This feature reflects a commitment to ensuring that the structures fit well in the landscape, while also being strong and functional. The architectural choices made in this project highlight a balance between practical needs and a sensitivity to the natural world surrounding it.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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