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Charred Timber Cladding and SIP Panels in a Nature-Focused Meditation Cabin

Author:
Lena Bshabsha
Charred Timber Cladding and SIP Panels in a Nature-Focused Meditation Cabin

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber cladding and Structural Insulated Panels, the Meditation Cabin offers a sustainable and serene environment for yoga and mindfulness activities in a tranquil setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a Diamond Pier Foundation System for minimal site disruption.
02
Features large skylights that maximize natural light and enhance interior connectivity with nature.
03
Utilizes Structural Insulated Panels for superior thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Incorporates a hidden rainwater collection system to promote sustainable water management.
05
Designed with adjustable storage solutions to optimize space for various activities.

The Meditation Cabin project invites visitors to a space dedicated to relaxation and reflection in a natural environment. Positioned in a serene setting, the cabin serves multiple functions, focusing on activities such as yoga and meditation. The design centers on connecting with the surrounding landscape, offering a peaceful environment that encourages mindful practices.

Circulation Paths

The design features clear circulation paths that facilitate easy movement around the site. A main path provides direct access to the cabin, ensuring a straightforward journey for users. Secondary paths constructed from wood offer additional exploration around the cabin and encourage interaction with the landscape. The large outdoor deck functions as a space for collective yoga sessions, linking communal practices with the calming presence of nature.

Architectural Layout

The layout of the cabin prioritizes simplicity and functionality, allowing it to fit naturally within its surroundings. The construction is adaptable, designed to suit both flat and sloped terrains. Height adjustments are achieved using wooden foundation pillars, which provide stability and flexibility in locating the cabin without detracting from its overall appearance or usability.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Sustainability is an important aspect of the design. Solar energy powers the cabin, providing electricity and heating water. A centrally located wood fireplace enhances warmth during colder seasons. An environmentally friendly dry toilet system adds to its sustainability focus. Water collection is managed through a hidden gutter system, which captures rainwater and directs it to external tanks, working alongside the tilted roof that contributes to the overall functionality of the cabin.

Material Selection and Construction

The choice of materials is significant in the design of the cabin. Structural Insulated Panels, measuring 17 cm thick, are used for the exterior walls, offering good thermal insulation. Charred timber cladding not only adds a distinctive visual element but also resists fire and insect damage, making it durable. Light wood is used for the interior walls, creating a welcoming and calming atmosphere. The Diamond Pier Foundation System is notable for its ease of installation, as it requires no digging. This method helps reduce disruption to the site, aligning with the cabin's sustainable approach.

The cabin is designed to maximize natural light, with large glass facades and skylights incorporated into the structure. These features enhance the connection between the interior and the outdoors, creating a bright and inviting space that supports mindfulness and personal reflection.

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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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