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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enveloping a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Author:
CECILIA MARINA
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enveloping a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a sustainable wellness retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing spaces for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Design features a bent A-frame structure, maximizing interior space while minimizing material use.
04
Includes meditation shelters dispersed throughout the landscape to enhance solitude and connection to nature.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainable water management onsite.
The Stone Barn Meditation project is an architectural design focused on creating a wellness retreat in Madona, Latvia. This project represents a thoughtful integration of nature and architecture aimed at promoting mental and emotional well-being. The architecture emphasizes a harmonious relationship between the built form and its natural surroundings, providing spaces for introspection, meditation, and community engagement.

The primary function of the Stone Barn Meditation project is to serve as a sanctuary for individuals seeking a retreat from daily life. The architectural design includes distinct areas such as communal spaces for group activities, private accommodations for guests, and specialized shelters for meditation. This multifaceted approach ensures that the project caters to various user needs and encourages interaction with both the environment and fellow retreat-goers.

Several key components define the Stone Barn Meditation project. The main building houses communal facilities, such as a reception area and yoga studios, designed for shared activities that foster community among guests. Private accommodations, conceived as lightweight cabins, provide solitude while maintaining accessibility to scenic views and natural soundscapes. Additionally, meditation shelters are strategically located throughout the site to facilitate solitary reflection amidst the surrounding landscape.

An important aspect of the project is its emphasis on sustainability through material selection and construction practices. Locally sourced wood plays a crucial role in the structural design, ensuring minimal environmental impact while promoting a connection to the regional context. The use of polycarbonate panels in greenhouse areas maximizes natural light, contributing to energy efficiency and enhancing the wellness experience. Furthermore, gypsum is utilized for insulation to regulate indoor climate, which complements the retreat's holistic approach to sustainability.

A unique design feature of the Stone Barn Meditation project is its incorporation of agricultural elements within the site layout. By integrating farming and orchards, the design not only provides fresh produce for the retreat but also reinforces the connection between occupants and the landscape. This inclusion creates an interactive experience that encourages guests to engage with their surroundings actively.

Innovative technological solutions further enhance the architectural response to sustainability. Passive solar design principles are effectively utilized to optimize energy use for heating and cooling. Water management systems that capture and purify rainwater demonstrate responsible resource consumption. Solar panel implementation helps power communal areas, ensuring that the retreat operates with minimal reliance on external energy sources.

Overall, the Stone Barn Meditation project illustrates a comprehensive approach to wellness architecture. Its design combines public and private spaces seamlessly with nature while prioritizing sustainability through thoughtful material choices and technological integration. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that define this project, it is encouraged to delve deeper into the full presentation for a more detailed understanding of its innovative attributes.
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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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