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Charred Pine Retreat With Sunken Meditation Space and Skylight Integration

Authors:
Brenda Izen, Meena Alcozai, Roxane Bejjany, Morhia Gifford
Charred Pine Retreat With Sunken Meditation Space and Skylight Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred pine and designed with a sunken meditation area under a skylight, this retreat offers a harmonious blend of solitude and natural connection for mindful reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred pine for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features a circular, sunken meditation space to foster introspection.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Incorporates clerestory windows that maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
05
Designed to adapt to seasonal changes with an efficient heating system.
The Silent Cabin is an architectural project designed as a minimalist retreat, situated within a forested area. The cabin's primary function is to serve as a space for meditation and relaxation, providing an environment that fosters mindfulness and introspection. The architectural design emphasizes a seamless integration with the surrounding nature, inviting occupants to experience tranquility indoors while remaining connected to the outdoors.

The project features a strategic spatial organization that distinctly separates practical living areas from dedicated meditation zones. Upon entering the cabin, visitors are welcomed into a corridor that leads towards the core living space. This area is equipped with essential amenities, including a small kitchen and bathroom facilities, while also maintaining an open layout with full-height windows that frame views of the forest. A circular meditation area, designed as a sunken space beneath the main living quarters, highlights the intentional focus on quietude and reflection, topped with a skylight to enhance the connection to the sky.

Unique to the Silent Cabin is its architectural response to seasonal changes and environmental conditions. The choice of black charred pine for exterior cladding ensures durability and fire resistance while creating a striking contrast against the snow-covered landscape. Internally, clear Swiss pine is used to promote a warm and inviting atmosphere, contributing to the overall calming effect of the space. This combination of materials not only supports functionality but also reinforces the design's intention to blend harmoniously with its surroundings.

Architectural features like bi-fold doors and clerestory windows allow for adaptable interactions between the indoor and outdoor environments. These design elements enable the cabin to open up to its natural context, creating a fluid experience that aligns well with its purpose. The inclusion of a cast iron stove provides an effective heating solution for year-round comfort, further emphasizing the project's focus on practicality without sacrificing aesthetic value.

The Silent Cabin exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architectural design by merging functionality with sensory experiences. It serves not only as a structure but also as a sanctuary for personal reflection, underscoring a reverence for nature through its construction methods and material choices. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and additional design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the project.
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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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