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Charred Wood Cladding and Cork Flooring Shape a Sustainable Retreat for Mindfulness

Authors:
Kaavya Chhatrapati, Cameron Young
Charred Wood Cladding and Cork Flooring Shape a Sustainable Retreat for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Emphasizing its unique spiral form and charred wood cladding, the retreat seamlessly integrates sustainable materials like cork and wool, creating a tranquil space designed for meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a spiral entry that guides users into a meditative space, enhancing the transition from exterior to interior.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and weather resistance, demonstrating a commitment to durability.
03
Cork flooring contributes to sound insulation while being a sustainable material choice, promoting a quiet atmosphere.
04
Strategically placed louvered walls allow users to control light and ventilation, enhancing comfort and customization.
05
The structure utilizes locally sourced pine and beech wood, reinforcing the project's connection to its environment.
The Koru Cabin Spiral Hut is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that emphasizes a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Situated in New Zealand, the cabin draws its inspiration from the unique spiral shape found in nature, particularly reflecting the principles of the Māori culture, where the spiral symbolizes new life, growth, and movement. This project serves primarily as a retreat for meditation and yoga, facilitating a tranquil environment for individuals seeking peace and introspection.

The architectural layout of the Koru Cabin is characterized by its distinctive spiral entry, leading occupants into the core of the structure in a welcoming manner. This design approach enhances the user experience by encouraging a gentle transition from the outer world into a space dedicated to self-reflection. The interior, with its open floor plan, allows for a variety of uses, primarily focusing on practices that nurture mental and physical well-being. Ample natural light floods the space through strategically placed openings along the spiral walls, promoting a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape. This integration of light not only enhances the visual appeal of the interior but also creates an atmosphere conducive to mindfulness.

The cabin is constructed from a diverse array of sustainable materials that support its eco-friendly ethos. Sheep’s wool insulation offers excellent thermal properties, while cork flooring and ceilings provide sound insulation, adding to the serene ambiance. The use of locally sourced pine and beech wood for the structural framework not only contributes to the strength of the cabin but also aligns with the project’s commitment to utilizing local resources. Plywood forms the walls and roof, ensuring a lightweight design that does not compromise on structural integrity. Additionally, the incorporation of hemp cables not only supports the aesthetics of the project but emphasizes its environmentally conscious approach.

One notable feature of the Koru Cabin is its unique cladding, which employs the Shou Sugi Ban technique. By charring the wood, the design achieves a high level of weather resistance and fire safety, while also presenting a visually appealing surface texture. The exterior melds with the natural environment, promoting biodiversity and reinforcing the connection between the structure and its surroundings.

The flexibility of the interior space is enhanced by the inclusion of louvered walls, allowing users to adjust light and ventilation according to their comfort. Central to the cabin is a decorative fireplace, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. It provides warmth during cooler months while contributing to the overall calming atmosphere of the space.

The project stands out not only for its innovative use of materials and efficient design but also for its philosophical grounding in promoting wellness and mindfulness. It embodies the potential for architecture to enhance the quality of life by intertwining with cultural narratives and environmental considerations. The Koru Cabin Spiral Hut is a meaningful contribution to contemporary architecture, inviting users to experience the tranquility of a thoughtfully designed space that respects both nature and humanity.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the Koru Cabin will provide valuable insights into the intricate details and design concepts that make this project significant. Delving into the architectural ideas that shaped its creation can further enrich one’s appreciation of this unique architectural achievement.
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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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