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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Create a Sanctuary for Well-Being in Immersive Spaces

Author:
Viviana Trovato
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Create a Sanctuary for Well-Being in Immersive Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades harmoniously converge to create an immersive retreat that prioritizes wellness and serenity amid the demands of everyday life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features expansive glass façades to maximize natural light and connect interior spaces with the landscape.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design, creating dynamic interior spaces while maintaining visual harmony with the environment.
05
Prioritizes therapeutic design principles that promote user well-being and emotional health.
The project at hand represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture and wellness within a digital context, specifically as a virtual architectural design dedicated to promoting mental and physical well-being. Known as "Mind Haven," this project envisions an immersive space where users can find solace and rejuvenation amidst the chaos of modern life. It serves as a contemplation area situated within the metaverse, embodying a contemporary response to the growing need for restorative environments that cater to the complexities of human emotion and societal demands.

At its core, "Mind Haven" is designed to be both a workplace and a sanctuary, accommodating various functions that reflect the interconnectedness of everyday life. It comprises a workroom, a living room, a bedroom, an outdoor area, and a dedicated wellness space. Each zone is meticulously crafted to allow for a seamless transition between productivity and relaxation, emphasizing user experience and emotional engagement. This thoughtful organization supports the notion that well-being is enhanced not only by physical comfort but also through the thoughtful connection of spaces.

The architectural layout is well-considered, with spaces radiating around a central fireplace. This feature serves as a symbolic and literal focal point, representing warmth and community. The thoughtful arrangement ensures that users can easily navigate between the different areas while enjoying privacy, especially in spaces designated for relaxation. The interior flow encourages interaction, fostering a sense of belonging while allowing for personal retreat as needed.

One of the standout aspects of the design is the choice of materials employed throughout the project. Utilizing materials such as glass, concrete, wood, and digital textures, the architecture emphasizes transparency, earthiness, and warmth. Glass elements are strategically used to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and encouraging a connection with nature. Concrete provides structural integrity, while wood adds a tactile quality that enhances comfort and warmth, essential for an environment aimed at soothing the mind and body.

The innovative approach of integrating both physical and digital attributes highlights a shift in architectural thinking, where the spatial experience is not limited to the tangible. Instead, it presents an opportunity to engage with virtual textures that mimic real-world materials, enriching the user's interaction with the environment. This versatility allows the design to adapt to varying user needs and behaviors, fostering a usable and inviting atmosphere.

The overall aesthetic embodies a calming color palette consisting of soft pinks and earthy tones that reflect tranquility. These colors are chosen not only for their visual appeal but also for their psychological impact. The organic, flowing forms of the architecture work to create a sense of harmony, resonating with users on multiple sensory levels.

The project strives to redefine traditional architectural ideas by emphasizing biophilic design principles, which prioritize the human connection to natural elements. By seamlessly incorporating outdoor vistas and natural light, "Mind Haven" demonstrates a conscious effort to promote mental health and well-being. This connection to nature is vital in fostering a restorative environment that stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to improve life quality.

In sum, "Mind Haven" represents a modern approach to architecture, one that integrates wellness into spatial design in an increasingly digital world. It successfully combines comfort, function, and community while catering to the psychological and physiological needs of its users. To truly appreciate the intricacies of this project, stakeholders and enthusiasts are encouraged to engage with the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented within the project, further exploring the thoughtful ideas and innovative design approaches that define "Mind Haven."
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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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