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Bearing Ring Retreat with Smart Glass and Reflective Panels

Authors:
Chenyu Pu, Mengxing Wang
Bearing Ring Retreat with Smart Glass and Reflective Panels

Project in-detail

A bearing ring system allows for adaptable configurations in a cabin that integrates smart glass and reflective panels, creating a self-sufficient meditation space immersed in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
A bearing ring system allows the cabin to transition between upright and horizontal configurations.
02
Smart glass provides adjustable privacy while enhancing views of the surrounding landscape.
03
The cabin operates entirely off-grid, utilizing a subterranean base for year-round climate control.
04
Exterior mirror panels reflect the environment, minimizing visual impact and unwanted solar gain.
05
Multi-functional spaces accommodate meditation, living, and sleeping activities within a compact footprint.

The Transformable Meditation Cabin is designed as a peaceful retreat in a natural landscape. It serves as a space for meditation and contemplation, allowing users to connect deeply with their surroundings. The concept centers around adaptability, as the cabin can change its shape to meet the needs of the occupants. A distinct feature of the design is its bearing ring system, which allows the cabin to switch between upright and horizontal configurations, redefining how meditation spaces can function.

FUNCTIONALITY AND LAYOUT

The layout of the cabin is carefully planned to provide essential amenities alongside calming living spaces. On the ground level, occupants encounter a double door entry system, a manual operation station, a removable ladder, and necessary facilities like a toilet and sink. The main area is the meditation/living space, which invites calm and introspection. Thoughtful storage solutions are incorporated throughout to improve organization and make the space user-friendly.

TRANSFORMABLE BEARING RING SYSTEM

At the heart of the design is the bearing ring system, enabling easy transitions between upright and horizontal states. In the upright position, additional storage and a generator are accessible, reinforcing the cabin's independence from external resources. When horizontal, the space adapts to accommodate meditation practices while also allowing for living and sleeping activities. This flexibility enriches the experience for users.

MATERIALS AND ECOLOGICAL DESIGN

Sustainability is a core aspect of the cabin, designed to operate off-grid and lessen its impact on the environment. The subterranean base station is vital for maintaining a comfortable climate throughout the year. It provides natural ventilation during hot months and is equipped with a fireplace and generator for heat in colder seasons. The exterior features mirror panels that help the cabin blend into the landscape, minimizing its visual footprint and reflecting unwanted sunlight.

DETAILS OF CONNECTION WITH NATURE

A notable design feature is the roof, which uses smart glass that can transition from frosted to clear. This allows inhabitants to enjoy clear views of the surroundings while maintaining privacy when desired. This thoughtful detail emphasizes the connection with nature and enhances the peaceful atmosphere, inviting occupants to engage with the landscape in their meditative practices.

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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

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