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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Create A Private Retreat in Urban Tokyo

Author:
Walter Craven
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Create A Private Retreat in Urban Tokyo

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass walls, the design establishes a serene sanctuary in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and spatial efficiency.
04
Designed as a flexible space that can easily transition between meditation and social functions.
05
Integrates digital access for user convenience, facilitating easy booking and management.
The Tokyo Cabin project exemplifies a thoughtful response to the complexities of urban living, specifically targeting the needs of individuals seeking moments of tranquility amidst the fast-paced environment of Tokyo. This architectural endeavor is designed as a compact haven, offering solutions for meditation and private conversations, thereby shaping how urban spaces can cater to personal well-being. The project brings forth a vision of architecture that prioritizes individual mental health while fostering a connection with the surrounding cityscape.

Functionally, the Tokyo Cabin serves as a versatile space that can be used for various activities, from meditation and relaxation to casual meetings and personal reflection. This multifunctionality is central to its design, allowing users to adapt the space to their unique requirements. The cabin's layout maximizes utility within a compact footprint, showcasing how efficiency can coexist with comfort.

Critical components of the Tokyo Cabin include its carefully considered spatial configuration and material choices. The overall design embraces a minimalistic aesthetic, relying on the principle that less is more. Open floor plans facilitate an unobstructed flow of movement, while distinct areas cater to different uses without feeling cramped. The introduction of retractable lounge seating ensures that the space can transition effortlessly between relaxation and focus. This feature not only enhances usability but also reflects a modern approach to architecture—one that accommodates the dynamic needs of urban inhabitants.

Materiality plays an essential role in the Tokyo Cabin’s design. A combination of natural wood, glass, and fabric creates an inviting atmosphere that resonates with the concept of tranquility. The use of wood brings warmth to the interiors, while glass elements enhance transparency, allowing natural light to transform the cabin throughout the day. This interaction between light and material fosters an uplifting environment conducive to meditation. The fabric elements incorporated for seating and partitions further contribute to acoustic comfort, ensuring that privacy is maintained even in a shared urban context.

A unique aspect of the Tokyo Cabin is its integration of technology, which facilitates user interaction with the space. The implementation of a digital platform for access and booking underscores a contemporary approach to architecture that considers the convenience of its users. By allowing for temporary installations, the project promotes flexibility and accessibility, ensuring that it can serve diverse urban demographics effectively.

The design outcomes of the Tokyo Cabin illustrate the potential of architecture to address modern challenges faced by city dwellers. By prioritizing mental health and personal space, it offers a model for future architectural interventions in densely populated areas. Rather than merely functioning as a structure, the Tokyo Cabin embodies a philosophy that recognizes the importance of well-being in urban environments.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design ideas behind the Tokyo Cabin will provide deeper insights into its conceptual framework and execution. This project stands as a testament to the evolving dialogue between architecture and the urban experience, encouraging individuals to find their personal sanctuary within the city. For those interested in understanding the nuanced elements of the Tokyo Cabin and its architectural significance, further investigation into its detailed presentations is highly recommended.
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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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