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Burnt Wood Retreat With Triangular Form for Contemplative Engagement

Authors:
Simon Morville, Marc Takikawa
Burnt Wood Retreat With Triangular Form for Contemplative Engagement

Project in-detail

Constructed with yaki sugi burnt wood, the cabin's triangular form emphasizes a direct connection with nature, creating a tranquil space for meditation and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using yaki sugi burnt wood for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
The triangular plan optimizes spatial dynamics for meditation and reflection.
03
Large bay windows provide panoramic views and abundant natural light.
04
Integrated furniture preserves simplicity and minimizes interior clutter.
05
Strategic openings create a direct connection between interior and surrounding forest.

The architectural design features a meditative retreat located in a forest setting, focusing on the connection between built forms and nature. The cabin primarily serves as a space for contemplation and introspection, encouraging visitors to engage with the peaceful surroundings. The overall concept is based on the idea of "the forest as a house," where architecture becomes part of the landscape and promotes meditation through thoughtful design choices.

Spatial Dynamics

The cabin's layout uses a triangular plan that creates a clear relationship between its interior and exterior. This arrangement divides the space into two meaningful dimensions: the horizontal, which symbolizes the physical world, and the vertical, representing the spiritual aspect. A large bay window opens to the forest, allowing ample natural light to enter and providing expansive views. The vertical dimension is represented by two openings that converge, directing the occupant's gaze upward while maintaining a solid connection to the ground.

Materials and Aesthetics

Materials play a significant role in the design, particularly the application of "yaki sugi," or burnt wood, for the cabin’s exterior. This technique not only enhances the structure's visual character but also reinforces its bond with the surrounding environment. The dark tones of the wood contrast with other lighter materials, creating a pleasing visual effect that integrates the cabin into the forest setting. Inside, the focus remains on simplicity and functionality, with built-in furniture that helps to maintain a calm and uncluttered atmosphere.

Connecting Spaces

The design emphasizes the transition from the outside world to the meditative interior. Visitors approach along a winding path that prepares them for this shift. Upon reaching the loggia, they experience a clear boundary between the lively exterior and the quiet reflective space within. This interior layout is organized and purposeful, with essential features such as the fireplace, washbasin, and sky-window carefully placed to enhance both usability and mindfulness.

Light and Nature

Natural light is a central element of the design, influencing the overall experience inside the cabin. Generous openings allow daylight to brighten the space, creating different moods throughout the day. This relationship between light and architecture fosters a sense of connection to the outdoors, encouraging occupants to engage with the natural world around them. Each aspect of the design— from the spatial planning to the placement of windows— contributes to an atmosphere of calm and reflection.

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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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