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Charred Cedar Cabin Embracing Indigenous Trees for Reflection

Author:
Sejin Kim
Charred Cedar Cabin Embracing Indigenous Trees for Reflection

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred cedar and aligned with indigenous trees, the cabin provides a tranquil space for meditation while seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin utilizes charred cedar to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Vertically open windows create adaptable light and airflow for meditative practices.
03
The design aligns with the natural slope of the ridge to promote seamless integration.
04
An altar for flower essence processing serves as a focal point within the interior.
05
Surrounded by indigenous trees, the site fosters a deep connection to nature.

The project "Transition to Meditation" is situated in a quiet clearing surrounded by indigenous trees, strategically placed along a ridge to enhance its reflective purpose. Designed as a space for meditation, the cabin encourages visitors to move from a state of distraction to one of calm and focus. The overall concept revolves around the idea of transition, both in a physical and mental sense, allowing individuals to engage in mindfulness in an environment that supports introspection.

Design Concept

Transition is an essential theme expressed through the layout of the cabin. The entry frames the approach, preparing visitors for a shift from the outer world to a more contemplative internal space. Vertically open windows play an important role in this concept, enabling users to tailor their environment while inviting in natural light. These features connect the interior with the outdoors, enriching the experience of being in a natural setting.

Spatial Organization

The cabin is designed as a rectangular structure that includes a meditation room and a central area that serves as an altar. This thoughtful arrangement helps minimize distractions, fostering a focused atmosphere for meditation. The alignment with the natural slope of the terrain allows for easy movement within the space. By utilizing two distinct volumes, the design creates a sense of enclosure while still maintaining a strong link to the surrounding landscape.

Light and Environment

Natural light is integral to the design, with sunlight entering from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The design takes advantage of seasonal variations in sunlight to regulate light levels. In the summer months, a skylight helps filter direct sunlight, while in winter, gentle light can enter through a vertical folding door. This strategic use of light contributes to a calming atmosphere that is supportive of meditation.

Material Selection

The material choices reflect the cabin's intention to create a welcoming environment. Charred cedar is employed for its ability to absorb light and provide a soothing texture within the space. Iron elements mark key entry points and offer structural support, forming a cohesive visual identity. Stone paving defines the meditation area, guiding users naturally through the cabin while connecting them visually to the outdoors.

Natural light filters in through the cabin’s openings, creating soft patterns that enhance the atmosphere of calm and focus. The design promotes an environment where individuals can reflect, find peace, and engage fully in their meditation practice.

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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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