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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Create a Serene Meditation Retreat in Aotearoa

Author:
Shirley Lazar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Create a Serene Meditation Retreat in Aotearoa

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and recycled timber, this meditation retreat seamlessly integrates into the New Zealand landscape, offering a tranquil space for reflection and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin’s structure incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability while providing a visually appealing texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized for the walls, promoting sustainability and offering excellent thermal performance.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration and allows for dynamic spatial experiences throughout the interior.
04
Integrated planters within the design encourage biodiversity and create a seamless connection between the interior and surrounding nature.
05
The meditation retreat's layout is flexible, accommodating various meditation practices and group sizes while fostering community engagement.
The Kaupeka Meditation Cabin represents a thoughtful approach to architecture, reflecting the intrinsic relationship between built spaces and the natural environment. Nestled within the lush landscapes of New Zealand, this project serves as a tranquil retreat designed for meditation and introspection. The name "Kaupeka" draws from the Maori culture, embodying concepts that resonate with nature and the passage of time, indicating a design deeply rooted in its geographical context.

Functionally, the cabin provides an intimate space for individuals or small groups to engage in meditation practices. Covering an area of approximately 22 square meters, its layout facilitates relaxation and contemplation in a serene setting. The spatial organization cleverly integrates the outdoors with the indoor experience, inviting nature to become a part of the meditation activities. Large glass walls enhance visual engagement with the landscape, merging the internal experience with external natural beauty.

One notable aspect of the design is the cabin's tower-like structure, which rises to capture sunlight and framed views of the surrounding environment, including nearby volcanic formations. This vertical element not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also symbolizes a connection to the sky and the broader natural world. The project employs eco-friendly design principles, opting for materials that underscore environmental stewardship. Predominantly featuring recycled wood, the structure aligns with sustainable building practices while exhibiting a warm, organic appearance that harmonizes with its setting.

The material selection further embodies the essence of the project. The use of glass allows for transparency and natural light while providing occupants with unobstructed views of the outdoors. Integrated planters enhance the indoor environment, creating additional green spaces that contribute to air quality and promote biodiversity. Such thoughtful choices elevate the cabin’s role as more than just a structure; it becomes a living part of its ecosystem.

The architecture emphasizes flexibility through multi-functional design elements. Various seating arrangements accommodate different meditative practices, allowing users to tailor their experience based on personal preferences or group dynamics. The inclusion of an ethanol burner introduces warmth and ambiance, enhancing the cabin's comfort during colder months, while operable skylights facilitate natural ventilation and light control.

Unique design approaches characterize the Kaupeka Cabin’s overall concept. The sloped canopy diverts rainwater efficiently while creating an inviting entryway. This architectural feature acts as a threshold that distinguishes the peaceful retreat from the surrounding wilderness. The emphasis on natural materials and the clever integration of landscape elements further strengthen the connection between architecture and its environment.

The cabin serves as a reminder of the importance of mindfulness and the need for peaceful spaces in our increasingly busy lives. The thoughtful architectural ideas imbued within the Kaupeka Meditation Cabin create a setting conducive to reflection and reconnection with one’s self and nature. As such, it stands as a model for future architectural projects that seek to blend functionality with a deep respect for the environment.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural design, the project presentation offers an opportunity to delve into detailed architectural plans, sections, and various architectural designs that reveal the deeper insights of this unique project.
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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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