Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Shingles and Stone Form a Sustainable Retreat Embracing Nature’s Serenity

Author:
Gaston Gonzalez Vivo
Charred Shingles and Stone Form a Sustainable Retreat Embracing Nature’s Serenity

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with locally sourced stone, the design creates a tranquil retreat that harmonizes with its surroundings, offering a serene space for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly with the local topography, minimizing disruption to the existing environment.
05
Offers a meditation area that encourages connection with nature through carefully positioned windows and outdoor spaces.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project that exemplifies a harmonious relationship between modern design and traditional Latvian aesthetics. Situated in a picturesque landscape, this project serves as a refuge for individuals seeking tranquility and reflection. The design is informed by the region's historical architecture, particularly the stone barns, creating a unique fusion of past and present while fulfilling a contemporary need for spaces dedicated to mindfulness and community engagement.

The primary representation of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp lies in its commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. It embodies a thoughtful approach to design that emphasizes ecological consciousness and respect for the surrounding environment. By utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional building methods, the project seeks to engage with the local community both in spirit and practice. The camp functions as a multi-faceted space, featuring areas designated for meditation, communal gatherings, and individual reflection. Its layout showcases a series of interconnected buildings, including a meditation barn, living quarters, dining facilities, and communal spaces, all thoughtfully arranged to encourage interaction while respecting individual privacy.

Key aspects of the project include its massing and orientation, which are carefully designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The primary structures are characterized by a simple yet effective form, featuring sloping roofs that not only resonate with traditional barn architecture but also facilitate environmental considerations, such as rainwater collection and solar energy utilization. The site planning takes into account the existing topography, with buildings positioned to maintain views of the surrounding scenery and enhance the overall user experience.

The material palette of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is another fundamental aspect of its design. The project emphasizes the use of stone and timber, with stonework sourced from local quarries that preserves the historical context of the area. The timber cladding is local as well, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Latvian architecture while contributing to the sustainability goals of the project. Large expanses of glass are incorporated into the design, particularly in the meditation barn, facilitating an abundance of natural light and creating a visual connection with nature. This interplay between solid and transparent elements serves to enhance the serenity of the space while inviting users to immerse themselves in their surroundings.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the consideration of how users will interact with the spaces. The thoughtful placement of communal gathering areas encourages social interaction among visitors, while the meditation spaces are designed to offer tranquility and privacy, suitable for deeper reflection. The architectural layout fosters a flow that respects both the collective experience and the need for solitude, catering to a diverse range of activities and preferences.

The emphasis on sustainability permeates through the design strategy, showcasing innovative practices designed to minimize ecological impact. The incorporation of solar panels on the roof serves as a testament to the commitment to renewable energy, while rainwater harvesting systems are engineered into the design to optimize resource use. The overall ambition of the project is not just to create functional spaces; it strives to be a model of sustainable architecture that resonates with its environment and community.

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture that recognizes the importance of melding tradition with modern needs. Its thoughtful design not only meets the functional requirements of a meditation camp but also acts as a catalyst for community engagement and environmental stewardship. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and ideas that underpin this project, the reader is encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of this unique architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy