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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Create a Tranquil Retreat for Mindfulness Practice

Authors:
Tania Lecona, Luis Aguirre, Oswaldo Valverde, Ying Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Create a Tranquil Retreat for Mindfulness Practice

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and robust stone, the retreat offers a serene environment for meditation while harmonizing contemporary design with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates communal meditation areas with private reflective spaces for varied practices.
05
Surrounds itself with carefully selected local flora, enhancing the connection to nature.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project located in Latvia, designed as a retreat for meditation and relaxation. The project integrates a historic barn, illustrating a dialogue between past and present. The architecture serves both as a sanctuary for individual reflection and as a communal space for group activities, emphasizing the importance of well-being through intentional design.

The primary function of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is to provide a tranquil environment conducive to meditation and self-discovery. Spaces within the camp are curated to facilitate various practices, ensuring that visitors can engage with their surroundings meaningfully. The design strategically incorporates elements of nature, enhancing the restorative experience by connecting users with the landscape.

The historical barn forms the centerpiece of the project, constructed with robust stone materials that convey permanence and strength. This structure will be repurposed for communal gatherings and meditation sessions, with extensive glazing to invite natural light. The architectural language blends old and new, using contemporary materials like glass and wood, which contrast with the barn’s heavy stone.

The integration of unique spaces further distinguishes this project from typical meditation centers. The Silence Chamber, for example, is specifically designed for solitary reflection. In addition, the Observation Deck offers panoramic views of the surrounding nature, allowing for a deeper connection with the environment during meditation practices. The Meditation Garden serves as an outdoor extension of these contemplative exercises, emphasizing the therapeutic quality of outdoor spaces.

Additionally, the Bikini Living Quarters introduce a playful yet functional design approach. Their unique shape, resembling a bikini top, provides a contemporary twist on conventional lodging, fostering a relaxed atmosphere among visitors. This aspect not only enhances user experience but also contributes to the project's overall aesthetic evolution.

The project's circulation plays a critical role, intentionally guiding visitors through a series of interconnected paths and spaces. These routes create opportunities for reflection and interaction, reducing the transition between individual and communal experiences. The design integrates local flora, reinforcing environmental sensitivity and the project's connection to its natural context.

For those interested in exploring the details of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into its innovative structure and thoughtful design approach. This exploration will illuminate the architectural ideas that underpin this unique project, showcasing its significance in contemporary architecture focused on wellness and community.
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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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