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Charred Wood and Elevated Design for Introspective Meditation

Authors:
Valentina Gonzalez, Jhorman José Cadenas Montaño, Sergio Andrés Cantor Amaya, Nicolás Felipe Ariza Torres
Charred Wood and Elevated Design for Introspective Meditation
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Elevated on four pillars and constructed with charred wood, the design serves as a reflective space that integrates meditation with the surrounding natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ecological impact on surrounding flora.
02
Pivoting panel functions as both altar and light source.
03
Charred wood provides both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
Interior layout allows for adaptive meditative practices.
05
Integrated fireplace extends usability into evening hours.

The design focuses on the relationship between meditation and nature through the concept of a "Spiritual Nest." Set in a remote natural environment, the structure features a black box that aligns with the surrounding landscape. This design aims to create a space for personal reflection and connection with nature, serving as a retreat for individual meditation practices.

Adaptable Spaces

The core idea revolves around meditation as an internal journey, acknowledging the diverse practices of different users. Inside, the layout allows flexibility, transforming from a quiet, personal retreat to an open area that emphasizes sensory experiences. This adaptability encourages users to shape their time spent in the structure according to their individual needs.

Functional Areas

Various functional spaces are thoughtfully designed to support meditation and contemplation. Clearly defined areas for reflection are included, and an altar enhances the user's connection to their practice. Storage is also provided to meet practical needs. A fireplace supports evening gatherings, broadening the range of activities that can take place in the space.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light is an important design element. A pivoting panel on the north side serves multiple purposes. It allows for flexible use within the space and acts as an altar for processing flower essences. This panel invites light inside, enhancing the interior atmosphere and maintaining a link with the external environment.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials is deliberate and varied. Concrete footings create a sturdy base while helping to protect the local ecosystem. The structure incorporates wooden columns, struts, and beams to maintain a consistent look throughout. Folding doors and panels add flexibility, making the interior dynamic. Sloped glazing allows for maximum light entry, and the use of charred and light woods contributes an organic quality that connects to the natural surroundings.

The overall design strikes a balance between intimacy and openness, encouraging complete immersion in meditation while ensuring a strong relationship with the environment.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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