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Biophilic Retreat Crafted from Glulam and Green Roof Integration Focused on Mindfulness

Authors:
Khashayar Shahkolahy, Ramon Caba, Mike Secrist, Elina Zaytseva
Biophilic Retreat Crafted from Glulam and Green Roof Integration Focused on Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Crafted with glulam and a living green roof, this biophilic retreat harmonizes with its wooded surroundings to create a tranquil space for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a living green roof that integrates vegetation for improved insulation and biodiversity.
02
Utilizes engineered glulam for structural elements, enhancing both strength and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates large, strategically placed glazed panels, maximizing natural light and views of the forest.
04
Features a meditative dome space that enhances acoustics and creates a calming atmosphere.
05
Employs innovative passive design strategies, optimizing energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
The Synergy Cabin represents an innovative approach to modern architecture, seamlessly blending functionality with an intimate connection to the natural environment. Located within a serene wooded area, this architectural project is designed as a retreat that emphasizes relaxation and mindfulness, showcasing how architecture can promote well-being while respecting the setting it inhabits.

Functionally, the Synergy Cabin serves as a multi-purpose space that accommodates both communal activities and private moments of reflection. The design emphasizes an open layout that allows for fluid transitions between different areas. By incorporating private nooks and communal spaces, the cabin fosters a sense of community while also providing individual sanctuaries for contemplation.

The architectural approach taken in the Synergy Cabin is centered on fluidity and nature. The structure employs a combination of circular and curved forms, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also create a sense of harmony with the surrounding landscape. This design choice reflects a fundamental idea in architecture: structures should be an extension of their natural surroundings rather than an imposition upon them.

One of the key elements of the project is its use of materials that are both sustainable and fitting for the environment. Glue-laminated timber is utilized extensively for its warmth and strength, establishing a tactile quality that invites occupants to engage with the space. Large glazed panels allow for generous amounts of natural light, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas. The inclusion of insulation materials ensures energy efficiency, while the innovative green roofing system not only enhances the cabin's ecological footprint but also adds a touch of vibrancy with living vegetation.

Structure-wise, the design features multiple levels connected by elegantly designed spiral staircases, encouraging exploration within the cabin. The separation of areas dedicated to meditation and social interaction ensures that users can engage with the space according to their needs, whether seeking solitude or community.

The integration of outdoor spaces is another notable aspect of the Synergy Cabin. Thoughtfully landscaped areas create inviting paths and gathering spots, reinforcing the architecture's intent to promote a deep engagement with nature. These outdoor enhancements serve to complement the internal flow of space, facilitating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between inside and outside.

An additional layer of uniqueness in the Synergy Cabin lies in its emphasis on biophilic design principles. By fostering a closer relationship between occupants and the natural world, the project seeks to enhance physical and emotional well-being, encouraging users to embrace a lifestyle that values mindfulness and connection to the earth.

This project also engages with broader architectural ideas about energy flow and sustainability. The architectural plans display a carefully considered layout that integrates passive design strategies, allowing for optimal heating and cooling through natural ventilation. Architectural sections reveal the innovative structural forms that not only provide aesthetic depth but also reinforce the stability of the building.

The Synergy Cabin stands out not just for its design but for its thoughtful approach to creating a space that nurtures the spirit. By prioritizing both individual retreat and social interaction, it invites occupants to connect with themselves and the environment in a meaningful way. To delve deeper into the architectural designs, plans, and sections that bring this project to life, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its unique propositions and architectural ideas.
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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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