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Chakra-Focused Retreat Built with Valea Wood and Elevated Design Principles

Authors:
Jon Menoyo escuza, Mérici García lerín, Manuel Del pozo del pozo
Chakra-Focused Retreat Built with Valea Wood and Elevated Design Principles

Project in-detail

Constructed with Valea wood and elevated to minimize ground impact, these cabins provide an immersive forest bathing experience dedicated to meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced Valea wood for enhanced sustainability.
02
Elevated design minimizes impact on the forest floor while providing views.
03
Modular layout allows for versatile usage in meditation and wellness activities.
04
Integrated solar panels support energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
05
Charred wooden shingles create natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
The project titled “Into the Wood” consists of a series of forest bathing meditation cabins designed to integrate architecture with the natural environment. These cabins are situated within a forested area and are intended to provide a space for meditation, relaxation, and reflection. The design is anchored in the principle of connecting individuals with nature, promoting both psychological well-being and physical health through immersive experiences in a forest setting.

The cabins serve multiple functions, including spaces for individual and group meditation, wellness activities, and personal retreat. They are engineered to facilitate an engaging interaction between occupants and the surrounding ecosystem, making use of the natural landscape to enhance the user experience. The architectural approach employs sustainable practices, utilizing locally sourced materials and minimizing environmental impact.

Unique Design Approaches in Architectural Integration

The design distinguishes itself through a novel incorporation of natural elements into the structure. Elevated on slender supports, the cabins appear to float above the ground, creating minimal disturbance to the forest floor. This not only preserves the ecological integrity of the site but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. The design utilizes **Valea de Moises wood** for primary structural elements, ensuring both durability and a visual connection to the forest environment.

The layout includes open spaces that can be adapted for various activities, with modular configurations allowing for flexibility in use. Large windows direct views towards scenic elements in the landscape, encouraging occupant engagement with the surroundings. Integration of solar panels and rainwater management systems reflects a commitment to sustainability, aligning with contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize ecological responsibility.

Architectural Detailing and Material Selection

Attention to detail is paramount in the construction of these cabins. Each unit features wooden facades, which complement the natural surroundings while providing essential thermal insulation. The project emphasizes functionality alongside aesthetics, with cleverly designed storage solutions that maintain cleanliness without sacrificing design integrity.

Additional materials include circular metal pillars for support, metal gutters for effective rainwater management, and various types of thermal insulation to ensure energy efficiency. This selection of materials underscores the project’s dedication to blending practicality with a connection to nature.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, for a comprehensive understanding of how these elements coalesce. The thoughtful integration of architectural ideas within the “Into the Wood” project illustrates a nuanced approach to design that seeks to harmonize human experience with the natural world.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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