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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Geometry in a Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Author:
Duane Burnett
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Geometry in a Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, the meditation retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing a serene environment for mindfulness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone for the original barn structure, preserving its historical integrity.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance and weather durability.
03
Features passive solar design elements, such as Trombe walls for natural heating.
04
Includes extensive glazing for optimal natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with communal spaces that foster interaction while maintaining areas for solitude.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project located in Vidzeme, Latvia. It effectively merges the preservation of historical elements with modern sustainable design principles. The project is centered around a renovated stone structure, designed to serve as a tranquil retreat that promotes mindfulness and well-being. The camp focuses on ecotourism, offering both private and communal spaces for meditation, yoga, and education.

The architectural design prioritizes a seamless integration with nature, ensuring that the camp remains harmonious with its surroundings while providing functional spaces for visitors. Features such as natural light, sustainable materials, and communal areas are essential to the overall concept of the camp. Specific design strategies, such as passive solar heating and green roofs, are employed to enhance environmental performance and reduce energy consumption.

Community Engagement and Ecotourism Focus

One of the unique aspects of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is its emphasis on community engagement and ecotourism. The layout encourages interaction among visitors through shared spaces like the dining area and terraced gardens. The design includes an interactive approach to education, incorporating local ecology into the visitor experience. This not only fosters a sense of belonging among guests but also aligns with the camp's mission to raise awareness about environmental conservation.

The camp features dedicated areas for silence and reflection, allowing individuals to retreat and engage in personal practice. This balance between social connectivity and personal space is a strategic design element that distinguishes the project from other meditation retreats.

Sustainable Material Usage and Architectural Techniques

The project employs locally sourced materials, retaining the original stone of the barn while incorporating new elements that complement its character. Key materials include photovoltaic cells for energy generation, timber for structural and aesthetic elements, and extensive glazing to maximize natural light.

The use of green roofs not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes to thermal insulation, thereby optimizing energy efficiency. Passive design techniques, such as effective natural ventilation and sunlight orientation, are integrated to regulate indoor climates. The architectural sections and plans illustrate these sustainable practices, reinforcing the camp's commitment to environmentally responsible design.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural decisions and specific elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Architectural plans, sections, and designs provide additional insights into the overall vision and execution of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp.
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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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