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Bamboo Frame and Cotton Canopy Create a Serene Urban Meditation Space

Author:
Maria Sofokleous
Bamboo Frame and Cotton Canopy Create a Serene Urban Meditation Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with a bamboo frame and an indigo-dyed cotton canopy, this meditation cabin offers a tranquil retreat in urban settings, designed to facilitate mindfulness and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from bamboo, promoting sustainability and durability.
02
Features a soft indigo-dyed cotton canopy that diffuses natural light for a calming ambiance.
03
Designed for modular assembly, allowing for easy relocation to various urban settings.
04
Integrates natural materials that connect users with the surrounding environment.
05
Emphasizes a fluid, organic shape that contrasts traditional rigid structures in urban design.
The "21 Grams" project is a meditation cabin designed to provide an urban sanctuary for reflection and mindfulness. It engages the concept of space as both a physical and psychological entity, inviting users to step into an environment that emphasizes tranquility. The project's name reflects the belief that the soul weighs 21 grams, suggesting a deeper exploration of spirituality and identity. This meditation cabin serves as a distinct structure that harmonizes with its surroundings while catering to the need for personal solace in urban environments.

The design incorporates a unique organic form that departs from traditional architecture. Its fluid shape represents the transition between the physical and spiritual realms, echoing the ephemeral quality of smoke. This reinforces the project's intention: to cultivate a space conducive to meditation and introspection. The structure’s layout allows for a seamless flow of movement, encouraging visitors to engage with both the internal and external landscapes.

Innovative Material Usage

The primary materials utilized in the "21 Grams" project are bamboo, cotton fabric, plywood, and wool felt. Bamboo frames the structure, renowned for its sustainable properties and strength. This choice aligns with the eco-conscious movement in contemporary design. The cotton fabric—layered to create a soft gradient from indigo at the base to white at the top—facilitates light diffusion while fostering a calm visual aesthetic. Plywood is employed for structural components, reinforcing stability, whereas wool felt enhances the sensory experience, providing warmth and comfort within the cabin.

The approach to these materials distinguishes this project from conventional meditation spaces. By integrating organic materials, the design connects users to natural elements, promoting mindfulness. This attention to materiality underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and user experience, reflecting a nuanced understanding of modern architectural practices.

Function and User Engagement

The primary function of the "21 Grams" meditation cabin is to serve as a quiet escape amid urban life. Its design caters to individuals seeking mental clarity and peace. Enhanced by its strategic placement in high-traffic areas, users are encouraged to engage with the space, allowing for spontaneous meditation sessions. The adaptable nature of the cabin allows it to be easily assembled and relocated, ensuring accessibility for diverse populations.

This project fosters community well-being by sparking conversations about mental health and self-care. It challenges existing notions of shelter by presenting itself as an interactive environment that prioritizes personal reflection over conventional spatial definitions.

This analysis provides a foundational understanding of the "21 Grams" project. For further insights, including architectural plans, sections, and other design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to discover the full range of architectural ideas exhibited within this meditation cabin.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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