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Carbonized Wood Cube Serving as Forest Meditation Shelter

Authors:
Lucrezia Corna, Alessandro leonel Medina bocanegra, Stoyan Gerchev
Carbonized Wood Cube Serving as Forest Meditation Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with carbonized wood, this cube-shaped structure integrates seamlessly with its forest environment, offering a dedicated space for meditation while promoting sustainability through its thoughtful design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely with carbonized wood for enhanced durability and sustainability.
02
Features a cube form that optimizes both structural integrity and spatial efficiency.
03
Utilizes high ceilings in the meditation area to evoke a sense of openness.
04
Incorporates strategically placed openings inspired by natural shelters for ventilation.
05
Designed to minimize its physical footprint, respecting the surrounding forest environment.

The design explores the relationship between built spaces and nature, set in a forest environment. The structure emphasizes harmony with its surroundings. The concept starts with a basic shape—a cube—that represents human shelter. This simple form contrasts with the organic shape of trees, aiming to merge the advantages of both natural and built environments.

Design Organization

The structure features three distinct levels, each serving a particular function. The ground floor accommodates services and storage, reduced in size to minimize its footprint. This layout reflects a commitment to sustainable practices by efficiently using space. The first floor is designed for living areas, positioned to enhance access to natural light, which contributes to energy efficiency and comfort. The upper floor acts as a meditation space, characterized by high ceilings that create an environment suitable for reflection and calmness.

Integration with Nature

The design prioritizes a strong connection between the interior and the forest. Openings are carefully placed to mimic natural shelters, which allows fresh air and light to flow through the space. This connection encourages occupants to engage with the landscape, fostering a sense of place and enhancing the experience of those inside.

Materials and Sustainability

Sustainability plays an essential role in the material choices for the structure. Carbonized wood serves as the primary building material, chosen for its durability and eco-friendly properties. The process of carbonization increases the wood's lifespan while promoting the use of renewable resources. Such material selection aligns with the overall goal of creating an environmentally responsible design, while also adding a tactile quality to the building.

Spatial Experience

Cubic forms define the architectural expression, creating a clear and recognizable silhouette. The indoor layout is designed for functionality and adaptability, catering to the diverse needs of its occupants. The interaction of light and shadow throughout the interior enhances the spatial experience. As daylight shifts, the atmosphere within the building changes, enriching the environment. It becomes a space for meditation, inviting users to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings and reflect within the tranquil setting.

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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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