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Calm Retreat Crafted from Mass Timber and Natural Materials for Urban Serenity

Author:
Darya Gladysheva
Calm Retreat Crafted from Mass Timber and Natural Materials for Urban Serenity
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Crafted from mass timber and designed with piezoelectric materials for sound absorption, the cabin offers a tranquil space for reflection amidst the urban noise of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using mass timber in an origami style for structural efficiency.
02
Utilizes piezoelectric materials to actively absorb surrounding sound.
03
Incorporates natural elements like cork and moss for sound insulation and aesthetics.
04
Features a dedicated area for digital device recharging, encouraging tech disengagement.
05
Designed as a calming retreat to promote mindfulness amidst Tokyo's urban environment.

The NOISE CABIN is an architectural response to the stress created by sound and digital noise in urban settings. Located in Tokyo, a city known for its constant noise and activity, the cabin offers a peaceful space for individuals to reflect. Its design concept encourages a new relationship with noise, suggesting it can serve both as a challenge and a source of calm.

Design Concept

The cabin features two main layers. The outer core represents tension and the chaotic nature of city sounds that can easily overwhelm people. In contrast, the inner core is designed to provide a refuge, highlighting how noise can be perceived differently. This design aims to change how people interact with their surroundings, inviting them to experience tranquility amid chaos.

Materials and Construction

Construction involves a clear five-step process. The inner core is made using mass timber in an origami style, which allows for a strong yet visually interesting structure. The internal finish uses cork and moss, which not only enhance the aesthetics but also improve sound insulation, creating a more pleasant environment inside.

Acoustic and Functional Elements

To handle noise effectively, the design incorporates piezoelectric materials that absorb sound. The outer core is finished with steel panels that add strength and durability, allowing the cabin to withstand the demands of urban life. This combination of materials supports the cabin's function as a calming retreat.

User Experience

Inside, there is a designated area for digital devices, enabling users to recharge while experiencing a break from technology. During therapy sessions, a steady white noise envelops the space, fostering a relaxing atmosphere ideal for reflection. The NOISE CABIN stands as an exploration of noise not just as a source of disturbance but as a potential pathway to mindfulness and peace.

The clean lines and thoughtful arrangement of the cabin invite users to consider how noise shapes their daily lives. The design subtly encourages a deeper connection to the urban soundscape, shifting the focus from annoyance to understanding.

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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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