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Bamboo Sheltering Overhang in a Tranquil Space for Mindfulness

Author:
Cordelia Kent
Bamboo Sheltering Overhang in a Tranquil Space for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

The integration of recycled steel and reclaimed wood forms a tranquil environment centered around yoga and meditation, enhanced by a bamboo overhang that highlights the project's commitment to sustainability and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed wood cladding enhances sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
02
A bamboo overhang offers protection while integrating natural materials.
03
Three skylights optimize daylight for flower essence processing.
04
Movable elements allow reconfiguration for diverse activities.
05
Low-level windows provide unique views of the surrounding landscape.

Wai is an architectural design that connects closely with its natural environment, serving a purpose primarily focused on yoga and meditation. Located in a quiet setting, the design emphasizes movement, symmetry, and flow, fostering a strong relationship between users and the surrounding landscape. The concept is built around enhancing mindfulness through physical space, utilizing large openings that welcome nature into the interior.

Spatial Composition

Inside Wai, large glass doors stretch from floor to ceiling, complemented by low-level windows and well-placed skylights. These features work together to bring in ample natural light, providing wide views of the outdoor setting and blending the boundaries between inside and outside. This arrangement creates a space where users can engage fully with their environment, enhancing the overall experience.

Movable Elements

Wai incorporates flexible design features, such as sliding and bifold doors that can be opened or closed as needed. Adjustable plinths throughout the space allow users to change the layout depending on their activities. This flexibility is particularly useful for yoga and meditation, enabling individuals to tailor the environment to their personal needs. The layout promotes a sense of movement and adaptability.

Material Integration

Materials selected for Wai focus on sustainability and aesthetic harmony. The exterior is finished with reclaimed wood, paired with a roof made of recycled corrugated steel. Inside, the flooring consists of locally sourced wood, while built-in shelving is made from bamboo. These material choices enhance the connection to nature, supporting both practical use and environmental responsibility.

Functional Features

There are also specific functions included in the design, such as three skylights that provide natural light essential for activities like flower essence processing. An overhang at the rear serves to protect the wood for a log burner, while also incorporating natural elements into the overall design. The space features two plinths on recessed tracks, making it easy to adapt to different uses and reflecting the principles of flow and utility central to the design.

The light blue walls help create a calming atmosphere, contributing to the intended environment for relaxation and meditation. This choice of color effectively supports the overall design, providing a soothing backdrop for users as they engage in their activities.

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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
competition now

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