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Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Facade Create A Sustainable Retreat for Reflection

Authors:
Jaakko Torvinen, Ville Karisto
Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Facade Create A Sustainable Retreat for Reflection

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and a bamboo facade, the retreat is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, providing an intimate space for meditation and solitude.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a bent A-frame shape to enhance structural integrity while maximizing natural light.
02
Constructed using locally sourced charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for a lightweight yet robust framework.
04
Features a bamboo facade that promotes sustainability and complements the natural environment.
05
Includes a wood-burning stove that supports off-grid living and minimizes ecological impact.
The Lean-To Cabin is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that embodies a serene retreat for meditation and reflection, responding to the need for solitude in an increasingly bustling world. The cabin’s primary function is to serve as a place of quiet introspection where individuals can disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with themselves and their natural surroundings. This project represents a harmonious blend of simplicity, functionality, and ecological mindfulness, making it a significant addition to contemporary architectural discourse focused on wellness and sustainability.

The architectural design emphasizes a compact form, reflecting a minimalist ethos that prioritizes essential living features. The layout is specifically tailored for a single occupant, with designated areas for sleeping, cooking, and meditation, enabling a streamlined living experience that promotes introspection. The integration of large windows allows natural light to permeate the interior, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, which enhances the connection with nature—a key aspect of the cabin’s purpose.

Materials play a crucial role in the overall design approach. The Lean-To Cabin is constructed using locally sourced timber, plywood, and bamboo siding, which not only provide structural integrity but also maintain a warm, inviting atmosphere. These materials are selected for their sustainability attributes, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. The inclusion of a wood-burning stove underlines the project’s aim for self-sufficiency, allowing for heating and cooking with minimal ecological impact. This choice of materials lends the cabin a tactile richness while ensuring that it blends seamlessly with its surroundings.

One of the standout features of the Lean-To Cabin is its unique architectural form. The sloped roof design, reminiscent of traditional lean-to shelters, promotes effective rainwater management while creating an aesthetically pleasing profile against the backdrop of the natural landscape. This design choice is not merely functional; it embodies a philosophy of living in unison with the environment, fostering both comfort and harmony. The spatial organization is carefully considered to balance functionality with a sense of openness, where each area naturally flows into the next. This fluidity is essential for cultivating an atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection.

The project also takes into account passive design strategies that enhance its sustainability. By employing natural ventilation and harnessing daylight, the cabin minimizes reliance on mechanical systems, further reducing its environmental footprint. The compact size of the cabin not only conserves resources but also promotes a lifestyle that values simplicity and mindfulness. This architectural approach serves as a reminder of the importance of living in balance with nature.

The Lean-To Cabin stands as a contemporary interpretation of traditional retreat architecture. It encourages individuals to embrace a quieter way of life, centered around self-care and connection to the natural world. By prioritizing unique design approaches that emphasize sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic coherence, this project exemplifies thoughtful architectural practice that aligns with the increasingly significant discourse on wellness in architecture.

To fully appreciate the intricacies of the Lean-To Cabin, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented in the project documentation. These elements provide deeper insights into the design thought process and the innovative ideas that shaped this remarkable undertaking. Engaging with the project details will enhance the understanding of its significance and the careful considerations that inform its architectural expression, showcasing how space can be thoughtfully designed to foster both introspection and harmony with nature.
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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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