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Biophilic Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Pine Wood and Expansive Glass Elements

Authors:
Alberto Bruno, Jacopo Consoli, Sergio silvestro Sanfilippo
Biophilic Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Pine Wood and Expansive Glass Elements

Project in-detail

Crafted from local pine wood and expansive glass, the cabin emerges seamlessly from its natural surroundings to provide a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin employs a ground-screw foundation, minimizing environmental impact during construction.
02
Local pine wood is used extensively, emphasizing regional materials and craftsmanship.
03
Expansive glass panels are strategically placed to frame picturesque views while maximizing natural light.
04
A bent A-frame design is utilized to create unique interior spaces that enhance the user experience.
05
Green walls are incorporated to foster biodiversity and blend the structure with its natural surroundings.
The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin, situated within the serene landscape of Portugal’s Vale de Moses, presents a thoughtful approach to architecture that emphasizes the importance of connection to nature. This project encapsulates a concept that harmonizes physical structure with the natural environment, creating a space meant for reflection, meditation, and healing. The cabin serves not only as a functional space but also as a representation of the interplay between built forms and their ecological surroundings.

The primary function of the cabin is to provide a dedicated area for meditation and therapeutic activities, promoting wellbeing through its carefully curated spaces. This architectural design is driven by a philosophy that encourages tranquility and mindfulness, aligning the human experience with the natural rhythms of the landscape. The layout of the cabin has been meticulously organized into several essential areas, including a meditation room, a therapy room, and a charging room. Each of these spaces is designed to foster a unique experience, influenced by abundant natural light and scenic views that integrate the interior with the outside world.

The architectural components of the cabin are rooted in principles of sustainability and simplicity. The building is primarily framed with local pine wood, chosen for its warmth and durability, which helps establish a welcoming atmosphere. The use of large glass panels allows for ample natural light to flood the interior while framing stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. This connection to the outdoors is further enhanced by the building’s strategic orientation, which maximizes sunlight exposure and facilitates natural ventilation, thus reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

Particular attention has been paid to the building's various elements. The foundation utilizes a ground-screw system, minimizing disruption to the existing landscape and landscape ecology. The cabin's roof features an angled design that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, acting as a skylight that invites fresh air while ensuring the interior remains bright and inviting. This design approach resonates with the cabin’s theme of organic growth, as the architecture seems to emerge naturally from the earth.

The interior of the cabin is characterized by a calming palette of natural materials, allowing users to feel enveloped in a soothing environment. Wooden surfaces create a sense of warmth, while the strategic use of materials reflects a contemporary understanding of environmental responsibility. The cabin is intended to be a living structure, with certain components designed to encourage the growth of plants and foliage, directly tying the architecture to the surrounding flora and fauna.

What makes this project particularly distinctive is its commitment to embodying principles of biophilic design, which seeks to enhance the connection between people and nature through the built environment. The unique design elements create seamless transitions between the indoor and outdoor experiences, allowing occupants to engage with their surroundings in a contemplative manner. This thoughtful integration of landscape and architecture is not just about aesthetics; it establishes an environment conducive to healing and personal growth.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, the Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin invites exploration. Delving into these elements will provide valuable insights into how the project effectively addresses the relationship between architecture and the landscape, as well as the innovative design strategies employed throughout the cabin’s construction. Engaging with these materials will enrich one’s appreciation for the delicate balance between human creativity and natural beauty, showcasing how architecture can serve as a conduit for mindfulness and connection in today’s world.
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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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