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Chakra-Aligned Pyramid Using Cross-Laminated Timber and Ecological Cork

Authors:
Marius Voica, Iuliana Liubomeiscaia, Claudia-nicoleta Visterineanu
Chakra-Aligned Pyramid Using Cross-Laminated Timber and Ecological Cork
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Constructed as a chakra-aligned pyramid, the design utilizes Cross-Laminated Timber and ecological cork to create a serene meditation space that fosters both individual reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Chakra alignment offers a unique focus on wellness through spatial design.
02
Cross-Laminated Timber enhances structural sustainability with renewable materials.
03
Ecological cork is utilized for superior sound insulation within meditation areas.
04
The pyramid shape optimizes natural light flow, creating dynamic interior atmospheres.
05
The design adapts to various urban settings, ensuring seamless integration into landscapes.

The concept centers around a pyramid structure designed for the urban area of Tokyo Bay. The aim is to create a self-sustaining community that can house a large number of residents. This design blends ancient Japanese pyramid architecture with modern concepts to emphasize energy use and spatial comfort. It highlights the importance of both personal space and community interaction.

Design Concept

The pyramid's shape is key to its architectural vision. The dimensions and angles are carefully chosen to enhance how light enters the space, creating a peaceful atmosphere suited for meditation. Inside, the layout supports both individual reflection and group activities. This dual purpose allows for a rich experience of both solitude and connection.

Materiality

Cross-Laminated Timber, or CLT, serves as the primary material for the structure's panels. This choice supports a strong framework while promoting renewable resources. In addition, 15mm ecological cork is used in the pyramid walls for sound insulation. This material significantly improves the acoustic experience, which is essential for meditation and tranquility inside the pyramid.

Environmental Integration

Light refraction and dispersion play an important role in the design, particularly with a glass element at the top of the pyramid. This feature allows natural light to create shifting patterns throughout the day, enriching the interior atmosphere. The design also makes sure that it can adapt to various urban settings. Its base is designed to work well with existing infrastructure while being easy to install in natural locations, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to placement and interaction.

Final Design Detail

The pyramid aligns with the seven main chakras of the human body, which enhances the meditative experience within the space. This careful alignment fosters a connection between the architecture and the well-being of its users. The design emphasizes harmony and balance, resulting in an environment that encourages both individual peace and social engagement.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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