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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in a Mindful Retreat Amidst Forest Canopy

Authors:
Su Wu, Sixin Liang, Taifu Zheng, Lorenzo Fantino
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in a Mindful Retreat Amidst Forest Canopy

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and an A-frame structure, the retreat seamlessly blends with its forest surroundings to create an intentional space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin's design emphasizes a circular layout, fostering a sense of community and connection among users.
02
Thatch roofing provides natural insulation while reflecting traditional Latvian building techniques.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light and blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
A focus on local materials enhances environmental sustainability and integrates the structure with its surroundings.
05
Ambient sound design incorporates natural forest acoustics to enhance the meditation experience.
The Breathing Cabin is an architectural project located in the forests of Ozolini, Latvia. It serves as a retreat designed specifically for meditation, emphasizing a deep connection between individuals and their natural surroundings. The project’s form and materials reflect an integration with the landscape, encouraging tranquility and mindfulness in its users.

The primary function of the Breathing Cabin is to provide a space for contemplation and reflection, allowing visitors to engage with nature in a meaningful way. The cabin’s design incorporates locally sourced materials, such as wood, glass, thatch, and concrete. This selection not only promotes sustainability but also aligns the architecture with regional characteristics. The overall design promotes a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the experience of meditation through an interaction with the environment.

The architectural design features an A-frame structure, which is both practical and distinctive. This shape addresses climatic concerns such as snow accumulation while maintaining a visual connection to traditional local architecture. The full-height glass panels serve as walls, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior while providing framed views of the surrounding forest. The layout is thoughtfully organized to encourage both individual contemplation and social interaction, demonstrating a balance between personal and communal spaces.

The project stands out due to its focus on creating a holistic experience. By integrating sensory elements—such as ambient forest sounds, natural light, and the tactile qualities of different materials—the design fosters a deeper level of interaction with the environment. This approach is not commonly seen in typical meditation spaces, where the emphasis is often placed solely on functionality. Instead, the Breathing Cabin focuses on the emotional and psychological impacts of architecture.

Another unique aspect is the cabin’s sustainable design ethos. The use of eco-friendly materials minimizes the ecological footprint, while passive heating strategies harness sunlight to maintain comfort throughout different seasons. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the user experience but also serves as a model for future architectural projects seeking to balance functionality with environmental responsibility.

The Breathing Cabin exemplifies how architecture can create spaces that are not only functional but also foster a profound connection with nature. For those interested in exploring the design further, a comprehensive review of architectural plans, sections, and designs is encouraged to gain a deeper understanding of the project’s architectural ideas and approaches.
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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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