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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Define a Meditative Community Space

Author:
Elisa Pérez sanz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Define a Meditative Community Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design creates a tranquil community space embedded within a series of reflective lakes, fostering both individual contemplation and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates reflective lakes that align with the chakras, promoting meditation.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that support a bent A-frame design.
04
Integrates public market spaces designed for community interaction.
05
Employs locally sourced materials, reinforcing regional identity and sustainability.
The Seven Steps architectural project integrates a conceptual framework centered on the notion of the "Seven Chakras," promoting a harmonious interaction between spiritual exploration and community engagement. Situated in a village rooted in both historical and contemporary characteristics, this design reflects a commitment to enhancing the user experience, connecting individuals to their environment, and fostering a sense of belonging.

The architectural design is organized around a central axis featuring seven lakes, each symbolizing one of the chakras. These lakes are not merely ornamental; they serve as critical components that facilitate meditation and reflection, creating an introspective journey throughout the landscape. The project balances public and private spaces, with designated areas for artists and quiet contemplation alongside communal gathering spots such as a town market.

What sets this project apart from conventional architectural designs is its thematic approach that integrates spiritual elements with everyday functionality. The use of local materials, including stone, wood, glass, and concrete, not only promotes sustainability but also creates a sense of place, connecting the built environment to the locale. The project emphasizes natural light and views of the surrounding topography, enhancing the living experience.

Community Engagement and Design Integration

This project emphasizes community engagement through its spatial organization, making it a focal point for social interaction. The incorporation of public spaces, such as the town market and open gathering areas, is intentional in fostering connections among users. Each building element reflects a chakra, inviting users to explore their relationships with both the physical space and the individuals around them. This design choice is notable for its attempt to create a holistic environment where spirituality and community coexist.

The careful consideration of topography is also a distinctive aspect of the project. Vertical walls provide support while guiding movement through the space, maintaining visual continuity with the natural landscape. Each element, from the organic forms of the structures to the arrangement of the water features, is deliberately crafted to align with the project’s conceptual framework, reinforcing the intention behind its design.

Sustainability and Material Selection

The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and local identity. By utilizing local stone and wood, the project minimizes its ecological impact and enhances its contextual relevance. Glass elements further optimize natural light infiltration, bridging the gap between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape. Concrete is used for pathways and structural elements, contributing to the durability and functionality of the design.

This project not only serves as a space for individual reflection and creativity but also nurtures communal ties, making it a significant addition to the village. The approach to design exemplifies how architecture can embody both practical use and deeper meanings, creating an environment that resonates with its users.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and design layouts. A thorough review of these elements will provide deeper insights into the unique architectural ideas and innovative design solutions that characterize the Seven Steps project.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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