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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Defining a Secluded Meditation Retreat

Author:
Kateřina Kurešová
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Defining a Secluded Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and illuminated by thoughtfully placed natural light, this meditation cabin offers a serene escape designed for introspection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features unique charred wooden shingles that enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
A bent A-frame design maximizes structural stability and allows for optimal natural light penetration.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels were used for their strength and sustainability, promoting an eco-friendly construction approach.
04
Strategically placed slats offer privacy without sacrificing views of the surrounding landscape.
05
An internal altar for flower essences encourages holistic practices and personal reflection within the meditation space.
The project under examination is a meditation cabin designed to serve as a tranquil retreat immersed in nature. This architectural endeavor represents a thoughtful fusion of form, function, and environmental responsiveness. Situated in a clearing surrounded by trees, the cabin provides both a physical space for meditation and a metaphorical sanctuary for inner reflection. This design not only aims to facilitate personal introspection but also promotes a deeper connection between individuals and their natural surroundings.

The primary function of this meditation cabin is to offer a dedicated space for mindfulness practices. It encourages users to step away from the distractions of everyday life, enabling a quieter engagement with oneself and the beauty of the landscape. The cabin is intentionally designed to allow natural light to permeate the interior while providing privacy and a sense of enclosure. This nuanced balance between openness and seclusion creates an inviting atmosphere that fosters peace and contemplation.

Key architectural elements of the cabin include its innovative use of materials and the flowing, organic shape of the structure. The building features a combination of dark wood shingles at its base and lighter vertical wood slats above. This duality in material choice serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. The dark wood integrates the cabin seamlessly with the earth and surrounding trees, while the lighter slats facilitate the entry of natural light, thus enhancing the overall ambiance.

Inside, the layout is characterized by a series of interconnected spaces that promote both communal and solitary experiences. A central area designated for meditation serves as the heart of the cabin, encouraging group discussions or quiet reflections. Adjacent to this space is a "tiny hall" that acts as a transition zone, guiding users as they move from the exterior world into a more contemplative environment. Strategic storage solutions, such as shelves, are incorporated within the design, ensuring that personal belongings can be kept close without disrupting the cabin's tranquility.

The incorporation of an altar for flower essences further elevates the spiritual dimension of this architectural project. It invites users to engage with natural elements and participate in holistic practices that align with the project’s ethos. The choice of stepping sandstone for flooring offers a tactile connection to the landscape, enriching the sensory experience of the cabin.

This project exemplifies unique design approaches through its emphasis on sustainability and environmental harmony. By utilizing locally-sourced materials and crafting a building that enhances rather than disrupts the natural setting, it embodies a modern architectural narrative that respects and uplifts its context. The flowing form of the cabin not only reflects the contours of the land but also creates a calming presence that resonates with the meditative intent of the space.

As you explore this meditation cabin further, it is encouraged to review detailed elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that contribute to its overall impact. Delving into these aspects reveals the thoughtfulness and care embedded in this project, highlighting how architecture can serve to foster reflective practices in a setting that deeply respects its ecological surroundings. Engaging with these layers will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project's design intent and its significance as a contemplative retreat.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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