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Charred Wood and Spiral Design Create a Mindfulness Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Kaavya Chhatrapati, Cameron Young
Charred Wood and Spiral Design Create a Mindfulness Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

The use of charred wood in a spiraling form creates a secluded meditation retreat that emphasizes mindfulness and a deep connection with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral design encourages a unique journey from exterior chaos to interior tranquility.
02
Constructed with locally sourced, sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrated openable walls promote natural ventilation and connection to the landscape.
05
Utilizes prefabricated grid shell panels for efficient on-site assembly.
The Koru architectural design project, located in New Zealand, presents a meditation structure known as the Kiwi Cabin Spiral Hut. This project aims to facilitate personal reflection and connection with nature through its unique spiral form. By integrating sustainable materials and contemporary architectural principles, the design emphasizes harmony with the surrounding landscape while encouraging mindful engagement with the environment.

The function of the Koru project is multifaceted. It serves as a retreat space for meditation and introspection, providing both private and communal areas for reflection. The cabin’s spiral layout directs users through a journey that transitions from the external environment into a focused interior space, encouraging a sense of seclusion and tranquility. This spatial organization allows for various activities, such as yoga and group meditation, enhancing the cabin's usability.

Unique attributes of this project include its innovative architectural form and integration of locally sourced, sustainable materials. The spiral design is not only visually appealing but also functional, channeling natural light through strategically placed windows and skylights while maintaining privacy. The use of materials such as sheep's wool insulation, cork, pine, beech wood, plywood, hemp cables, and shou sugi ban cladding illustrates a commitment to ecological responsibility. This choice of materials enhances thermal efficiency and durability while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the structure.

Another significant aspect is the prefabricated grid shell panels used in the construction. This method streamlines the building process, minimizing disruption to the natural landscape and allowing for rapid assembly on-site. The inclusion of openable walls and flexible spaces promotes airflow and direct interaction with nature, reinforcing the project's core principles of mindfulness and connection.

The Koru project stands out among similar architectural designs due to its thoughtful design approach that prioritizes sustainability, user experience, and integration with the natural environment. Each element of the cabin's design has been carefully considered to foster a meditative atmosphere, highlighting the value of architectural innovation in creating spaces that inspire reflection and well-being.

For further insights, explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the various elements of this project in detail.
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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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