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Charred Wooden Shingles And Natural Stone Create A Tranquil Meditation Retreat In Rural Latvia

Authors:
Maxim Badyornij, Artem Zanegin, Kirill Maikhopar
Charred Wooden Shingles And Natural Stone Create A Tranquil Meditation Retreat In Rural Latvia

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the meditation retreat seamlessly integrates into Latvia's rural landscape, offering a serene environment for mindfulness and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to provide structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation within the meditation spaces.
04
Includes outdoor integration with designated areas for gardening that promotes sustainability and invites visitor participation.
05
The layout thoughtfully guides visitors through sequential experiences, enhancing both solitude and community interaction.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is a distinctive architectural project located in the serene rural landscape of Vidzeme, Latvia. This development is designed to facilitate mindfulness, encouraging reflection and connection with nature. The camp represents an innovative approach to wellness and community living, where architecture serves as a conduit between human experience and the surrounding environment.

The primary function of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is to provide a sanctuary for meditation and relaxation, integrating spaces that cater both to individual contemplation and group activities. The architecture embodies simplicity and functionality, allowing users to engage freely with the environment. The layout of the project is carefully structured to promote a journey through various experiences, from solitary reflection to communal interaction. This sequential organization of the camp enhances the visitors’ experience, allowing them to discover the site organically.

Key components of the design include meditation buildings that are grounded within the landscape, outdoor areas designed for mindful practice, and communal spaces that foster socialization and connection among visitors. The main building serves as the heart of the camp, featuring guest accommodations, kitchens, and shared dining areas, with large windows allowing natural light to flood the spaces and offer views of the beautiful natural surroundings. These design decisions help to blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, creating a cohesive experience that deeply connects guests with the natural environment.

The use of materials in the Stone Barn Meditation Camp reflects a thoughtful consideration of both aesthetics and sustainability. Natural stone lends a tactile and visual quality to the structures, ensuring they blend seamlessly into the landscape. Wood is extensively used for interior elements and external facades, providing warmth and reinforcing a sense of comfort. The inclusion of glass elements creates expansive views and enhances the interaction between indoor spaces and the natural world outside. Additionally, durable zinc composite panels are utilized for their modern appeal while maintaining practicality and protection from the elements.

A unique aspect of the design is its modular approach, which provides flexibility for future adaptations or expansions, encouraging the camp to evolve with its community. The project emphasizes sustainability, featuring water management systems, solar panels, and structured gardening programs to support ecological awareness. These elements not only cater to the needs of the visitors but also contribute to a greater understanding of environmental stewardship.

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp stands as a noteworthy example of contemporary architectural design that prioritizes human experience, community, and ecological responsibility. Its location, layout, and materials combine to create a meaningful space for mindfulness and healing. For readers interested in deeper insights into this project, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas showcased here can provide further understanding of the unique attributes that define this compelling retreat. Exploring these elements will enhance one’s appreciation of the delicate balance between architecture and nature that the Stone Barn Meditation Camp embodies.
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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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