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Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Light in a Compact Urban Sanctuary

Authors:
Haowei Pan, Yu Gong, Zirui Jiang
Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Light in a Compact Urban Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wood shingles and designed to harness natural light, the meditation cabin offers a serene escape from the bustling urban landscape of Tokyo, inviting users into a space dedicated to mindfulness and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design not only optimizes interior space but also enhances acoustics for meditation.
04
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views of the surrounding environment to foster a connection with nature.
05
The cabin's footprint is compact, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into Tokyo's dense urban landscape.
The Rikyu Gray Meditation Cabin is an architectural project designed to address the growing need for peaceful spaces amid urban life. Situated in Tokyo, Japan, a city known for its dense population and vibrant activities, this meditation cabin serves as a refuge for mindfulness and tranquility. The design encapsulates the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics while catering to contemporary needs for wellness and reflection.

At the heart of the project lies the desire to create a space that represents a transition from the busy cityscape to a serene environment conducive to meditation. The concept is inspired by the "Tori," a traditional Japanese gate symbolizing thresholds and rebirth. This metaphor underlines the design approach, allowing users to perceive the cabin as a gateway to a more introspective experience. The cabin's function is evident; it is intended for individuals seeking solace and a break from daily stress, providing a compact environment that encourages mental well-being.

The architecture of the cabin is characterized by its thoughtful material selection and interaction with natural elements. Wood, glass, and concrete are the primary materials employed, each chosen for its inherent qualities that enhance the user experience. Wood brings warmth and a tactile connection to nature, while glass facilitates a seamless connection to the surrounding environment, flooding the interior with natural light and visual openness. Concrete serves as a robust foundation, grounding the structure while allowing for an enduring, low-maintenance design.

The design details of the cabin reflect a high level of consideration for both form and function. Its layout is carefully arranged to promote relaxation, featuring minimalist interiors that encourage meditation practices. Seating configurations are designed to maximize space without compromising comfort, and clever storage solutions are integrated into the architecture, ensuring users can leave personal items without cluttering the meditation space. The interactive components, such as pathways leading to the cabin and surrounding gardens, invite exploration and encourage users to engage with their surroundings, fostering a sense of community and connection.

A unique design approach employed in this project involves the incorporation of the surrounding landscape into the experience of the cabin. The careful placement of windows allows for views of the external environment, creating a dynamic relationship between the interior space and the natural world. This enhances the sensory experience, as users can observe the changing light, seasons, and urban life while meditating. The cabin thus situates itself within the urban fabric, promoting not only personal wellness but also an acknowledgment of the larger community.

The versatility of the Rikyu Gray Meditation Cabin allows it to be adapted to various locations across Tokyo, making it a candidate for integration into different parks, street corners, or riversides. This adaptability reflects a commitment to enhancing urban spaces and making wellness practices more accessible to the public. By transforming underutilized areas into serene environments, the project underscores architecture's potential to contribute positively to urban living.

In summary, the Rikyu Gray Meditation Cabin exemplifies a contemporary architectural approach that prioritizes well-being and mindfulness in an urban setting. Through thoughtful design decisions, material choices, and attention to the surrounding environment, it provides a unique space for reflection and peace. Those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project can delve deeper into its presentation to appreciate the nuanced ideas and intricate details that define this work.
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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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