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Biophilic Retreat for Wellness and Mindfulness

Author:
Sofia Pavlova
Biophilic Retreat for Wellness and Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Designed to support practices such as yoga, meditation, and shared rituals, the project offers a holistic environment where physical, mental, and social well-being are nurtured through intentional design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, enhancing weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes flexible multi-purpose spaces tailored for community yoga and meditation activities.
05
Integrates biophilic elements, creating a direct connection with the surrounding natural environment.

The Soul Shelter is an architectural project that embodies a convergence of mindfulness, community interaction, and sustainability. Situated within a forested area, it serves as a retreat designed for yoga practice, meditation, and communal living.

The architecture of the Soul Shelter integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, emphasizing the importance of environmental harmony. The primary function of the Soul Shelter is to facilitate activities that promote physical and mental well-being. Various spaces within the structure are tailored to accommodate yoga classes, meditation sessions, and communal gatherings. This design not only addresses individual needs but also fosters community bonding, reflecting the project’s core values of mindfulness and togetherness.

The structure utilizes load-bearing timber as the primary construction material, highlighting a commitment to sustainability. Extensive glass façades connect the interior with the exterior, allowing for abundant natural light while minimizing the need for artificial illumination. This integration of materials not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the project but also plays a crucial role in thermal efficiency. Insulated panels further enhance the building's sustainability, ensuring occupants' comfort throughout the year.

The focus on community is another unique aspect of the Soul Shelter. The design includes designated spaces for group activities, enabling residents to engage in shared experiences. Flexible seating arrangements in common areas encourage social interaction while facilitating community events, meals, and workshops. Additionally, specific features such as dedicated meditation corners and yoga studios are tailored for both individual practice and group sessions.

The Soul Shelter also exemplifies the principles of biophilic design, which emphasize the human-nature connection. The building’s orientation and layout are thoughtfully considered to enhance the occupants' exposure to natural elements, supporting their overall well-being. This holistic approach to architecture reinforces the project’s commitment to creating a mindful and nurturing environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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