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Camera Obscura Experience Created With Natural Stone and Charred Timber Elements for Mindfulness Retreat

Authors:
FEDERICO LERNER, MERCEDES MENA
Camera Obscura Experience Created With Natural Stone and Charred Timber Elements for Mindfulness Retreat

Project in-detail

A camera obscura design utilizes natural stone and charred timber to create a serene mindfulness retreat, emphasizing light manipulation and varied spatial experiences within a sustainable framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a camera obscura feature to enhance natural light dynamics.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic.
03
Integrates a half-buried design that fosters a direct connection to nature.
04
Incorporates silence chambers designed specifically for individual meditation.
05
Features extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.

### Overview
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is situated in a natural landscape designed to provide an environment conducive to meditation and personal reflection. The architecture prioritizes functionality while enhancing the surrounding context, integrating distinct spaces tailored to various user needs. The intent is to encourage mindfulness and introspection through the structure's interaction with light, shadow, and natural surroundings.

### Spatial Structure and Functionality
The camp is organized into several distinct zones. Interior rooms vary in size and richness of experience to accommodate different activities; some are intended for meditation in solitude, while others facilitate larger group gatherings. Silence Chambers are strategically located to enhance focus through acoustic design, ensuring minimal distractions. External rooms are thoughtfully integrated with the landscape, providing opportunities for users to engage with nature while reflecting. This deliberate spatial organization fosters a rich tapestry of experiences, promoting individual contemplation and connection with the environment.

### Material Composition
The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and contextual harmony. Natural stone is utilized for its structural integrity and enduring aesthetic, while metal roof panels provide a modern touch and resilience against weather. Timber cladding adds warmth to the interiors, reinforcing a connection with the biosphere. Large glass panes enhance visual continuity with the external landscape and allow users to experience changing natural light throughout the day. This careful interplay of materials creates a textured and immersive environment, honoring the project’s design philosophy of preserving memory and enhancing the user experience.

### Sustainability Initiatives
The design incorporates several sustainable practices, including renewable energy solutions such as solar panels and wind systems that reduce dependency on non-renewable resources. Rainwater harvesting systems optimize water management while contributing to ecological sustainability. Additionally, composting initiatives are integrated into the facility's operations, reflecting a dedication to environmentally responsible practices and minimizing waste.

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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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