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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Unite to Create Mindful Retreat Spaces

Authors:
Rony Zgheib, Rodrigue Safi, x x, x x
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Unite to Create Mindful Retreat Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, the design creates a seamless connection between built environments and the natural landscape, facilitating a retreat for meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to enhance environmental integration.
02
Features adaptive reuse of a historic barn, preserving its original character.
03
Incorporates extensive natural light through large strategically placed windows.
04
Includes private terraces with views to encourage personal reflection.
05
Offers integrated agricultural areas for hands-on user engagement with sustainability.
The Ex-Tension Stone Barn Meditation Camp is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in a serene environment aimed at providing a dedicated space for meditation, relaxation, and community engagement. This retreat center focuses on integrating architecture with the natural landscape, fostering an immersive experience for users. By prioritizing harmony with nature, the project effectively serves as a sanctuary that encourages mindfulness and personal reflection.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the key aspects of this project is its emphasis on adaptive reuse, particularly in the renovation of a historical stone barn. This approach preserves the existing structure while enhancing its functionality for modern use. The barn is transformed into a multifunctional space that accommodates recreational and community activities, illustrating a respect for historical context while ensuring contemporary needs are met.

The meditation hall stands out due to its use of natural materials and intentional design that promotes tranquility. Large windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light, creating a connection between indoors and outdoors. This design facilitates an environment conducive to meditation by incorporating elements that engage the senses—such as views of the landscape and natural sounds resonating from the surrounding environment.

Sustainable Practices and Community Focus

The project's design incorporates sustainable practices that emphasize environmental stewardship and community involvement. The layout includes agricultural areas where users can participate in farming activities, reinforcing principles of sustainability and connection to nature. The pathways throughout the site are intentionally designed to encourage exploration, allowing visitors to move freely between meditation spaces, recreational areas, and private accommodations.

In addition, accommodations are designed with privacy in mind, offering a retreat-like experience while also promoting community interaction. Each lodging unit features private terraces that provide views of the natural surroundings, reinforcing the project’s focus on tranquility and reflection.

The Ex-Tension Stone Barn Meditation Camp exemplifies an architectural initiative that integrates lasting design with environmental consciousness. The project invites users to engage with both the built environment and the natural world, facilitating personal growth and communal experiences. For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, please review the detailed project presentation to gain deeper insights into its innovative approach.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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