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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Natural Light Define a Retreat for Mindfulness

Author:
Artis Miezītis
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Natural Light Define a Retreat for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and a cantilevered design elevate this retreat, creating a harmonious environment for meditation and acupuncture while maximizing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
The cantilevered structure minimizes land disturbance and maximizes views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to swift construction and sustainability.
04
Low windows optimize natural light and maintain privacy without sacrificing views.
05
Adaptable interior spaces support various wellness activities and configurations.
The Charred Cabin is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated in a serene landscape characterized by hills and a river. This structure serves as a retreat for meditation and acupuncture, providing a tranquil setting conducive to relaxation and personal growth. The design emphasizes a seamless integration with the surrounding environment, creating a space that invites users to connect with nature while accommodating various wellness activities.

Unique Spatial Configuration
The design features a flexible spatial arrangement that adapts to different functions, such as individual meditation or group wellness sessions. The cabin is strategically oriented to the south-west, maximizing exposure to sunlight and offering panoramic views of the landscape. This orientation not only enhances the user experience but also facilitates natural light penetration throughout the interior spaces. The low-profile structure appears to hang over the hillside, enhancing its connection with the natural topography and allowing for unobstructed views.

Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials plays a critical role in defining the architectural character and sustainability of the cabin. Predominantly constructed from timber, the design embraces the surrounding pine forest, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glass is employed extensively to foster a visual connection with the landscape, while also allowing natural light to permeate the space. Steel may be utilized as part of the structural framework, providing necessary support without compromising the overall aesthetic. Concrete may feature in foundational elements to ensure structural integrity.

What distinguishes The Charred Cabin from conventional retreat designs is its responsiveness to user needs and environmental context. The design prioritizes wellness by creating spaces that are adaptable, encouraging various modes of engagement with the environment. The design intentions reflect an understanding of the importance of natural light, sustainable materials, and user-centric spatial configuration.

Exploring Architectural Elements
Delving into the architectural plans and sections reveals additional insights into the project's execution and philosophy. The layout emphasizes open spaces that can be easily reconfigured, demonstrating versatility and responsiveness. Attention to detail in the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces further enhances the overall user experience, allowing for a harmonious interaction with the natural landscape.

For more details on the architectural ideas that define The Charred Cabin, including architectural designs and their implications for user interaction, consider exploring the project presentation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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