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Bamboo Structure and Polycarbonate Shelter for Meditative Retreat

Author:
Carlo Alberto Guerriero
Bamboo Structure and Polycarbonate Shelter for Meditative Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with bamboo and enclosed in polycarbonate panels, the cabin creates an immersive environment that fosters meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from bamboo, offering a sustainable building option.
02
Enclosed in polycarbonate panels for lightweight durability and natural light.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for enhanced self-sufficiency.
04
Incorporates a small garden for essential oils and edible plants.
05
Operable windows allow for customizable ventilation and climate control.

SERRA is a meditation cabin located in a natural clearing that highlights its connection to the surrounding landscape. This design serves as a retreat for individuals seeking calm and reflection. Inspired by classic garden greenhouses, SERRA allows natural elements like light, air, and vegetation to enter the space, creating an experience that merges with the rhythms of nature.

Design Concept

The concept behind SERRA focuses on transparency and openness, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. By using few solid walls, the design promotes an ongoing exchange of energy with the environment. This method encourages visitors to become mindful of their surroundings, enabling them to engage with the changing seasons and weather patterns.



Spatial Flexibility

SERRA's layout prioritizes flexible spaces that allow users to adjust the environment to their preferences. Operable doors and windows enable individuals to control temperature and humidity, catering to personal comfort. Additional features, such as systems for collecting rainwater, enhance the experience by providing coolness and relaxation. Essential oil candles create a soft light, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.



Integration of Nature

A significant aspect of SERRA is the role of plants inside and outside the cabin. The vegetation adds color and life while improving air quality. There is a small garden that supports various types of plants, including those for essential oils and fruit. This design choice emphasizes the importance of biodiversity and fosters a deeper connection between visitors and the natural setting.



Construction Techniques

The structure of SERRA combines different construction methods from Western and Eastern traditions, representing a practical approach to building. It rests on small concrete blocks that can be made on-site without special equipment. Polycarbonate panels are used for walls and the roof, allowing for natural light while protecting against the elements. This careful selection of materials contributes to a comfortable and functional space.



The cabin features lanterns held by bamboo sections, filled with aromatic candles that cast a warm light, transforming the atmosphere as evening falls over the clearing.

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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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