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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Retreat for Mindfulness in the Forest

Authors:
Daria Domagala, José Algeciras-rodriguez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Retreat for Mindfulness in the Forest

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this cabin harmoniously integrates into its forest environment, providing a serene space dedicated to meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a unique texture that integrates with the natural surroundings.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and creates dynamic visual lines.
04
The layout allows for seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity, fostering a stronger connection to nature.
05
Incorporates sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and a greywater recycling system for water conservation.
The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin is a thoughtful architectural project designed to create a peaceful retreat set amidst the tranquility of nature. This cabin embodies a seamless integration of architecture and the surrounding landscape, reflecting a commitment to simplicity and sustainable living. The project is conceived as a space for meditation, offering individuals an opportunity to reconnect with their surroundings in a serene environment that encourages mindfulness and reflection.

At its core, the Vale de Moses Cabin represents a vital exploration of the relationship between built environments and natural settings. The architecture is characterized by minimalism and functionality, designed to foster a sense of calm and introspection. The cabin serves multiple purposes, functioning both as a meditation space and as a multifunctional living area that adapts to the needs of its users. This adaptability is fundamental to its design, ensuring that the cabin can accommodate various activities while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.

The construction of the cabin utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. Wood is prominently featured in the structural elements, providing warmth and inviting a natural feel into the interior spaces. The choice of concrete in specific areas offers durability and a contemporary edge, complementing the organic textures of the wood. Large glass windows play a crucial role in the design, allowing natural light to flood the interior while creating an unobstructed view of the surrounding forest. This design choice enhances the connection between the inside and outside, making nature an integral part of the cabin's experience.

One of the unique design approaches of the Vale de Moses project is its attention to the site’s ecological context. The cabin is built using local materials, reinforcing a connection to the environment and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Additionally, the landscape features surrounding the cabin are carefully curated, utilizing native plant species that require minimal maintenance and promote biodiversity. This respect for the natural ecosystem is a hallmark of the project, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainability in architectural design.

The spatial organization within the cabin is intentionally flexible, allowing for an open layout that can adapt to various uses throughout the day. The design includes functional areas such as a compact kitchen and bathroom, ensuring that residents have access to necessary amenities while maintaining the overall minimalist aesthetic. The integration of sliding glass doors enhances the functionality of the space, providing seamless access to outdoor decks that extend into the natural landscape. This promotes outdoor living, inviting occupants to experience the calming effects of nature.

In addressing climate considerations, the Vale de Moses Cabin incorporates various systems designed to enhance sustainability. Rainwater harvesting is a key feature, allowing the cabin to collect and utilize rainwater for irrigation and other uses, thereby reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency. The integration of photovoltaic solar panels exemplifies the project’s commitment to renewable energy, providing an off-grid electricity source that furthers its environmental goals. Moreover, a greywater recycling system is included, emphasizing the importance of water conservation in the architecture.

The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin stands as a meaningful exploration of how architecture can promote well-being while respecting ecological principles. Its unique design strategies—rooted in minimalism and sustainability—make it a model for future architectural projects aimed at harmonizing with nature. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, delving into architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shaped this cabin's creation. Each aspect of the Vale de Moses project serves as an invitation to reflect on the relationship between architecture and the natural world, fostering a lifestyle that values harmony, mindfulness, and sustainability.
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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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