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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Creating a Tranquil Meditation Space in a Natural Setting

Author:
Birsel Karagöl
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Creating a Tranquil Meditation Space in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and robust stone walls define a serene environment designed for meditation and wellness, seamlessly integrating sustainable agricultural practices within its tranquil landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Integrated agricultural zones include a greenhouse and fruit orchards for self-sufficiency.
05
The use of locally sourced stone preserves regional characteristics in the architecture.

## Analytical Report on the Stone Barn Meditation Centre

### Overview
Located within a natural landscape, the Stone Barn Meditation Centre is designed to function as both a retreat and a community hub focused on meditation, wellness, and agricultural sustainability. The project combines living quarters, meditation halls, and wellness facilities, all underpinned by principles of ecological design and community engagement. The intent is to create an environment that fosters mindfulness, self-sufficiency, and educational opportunities regarding sustainable agricultural practices.

### Spatial Configuration and Functional Zoning
The layout strategically organizes distinct functional areas to enhance user experience and promote tranquility. Central to this design is the Meditation Hall, which is illuminated by natural light filtering through glass walls, creating an inviting atmosphere for introspection. Surrounding this space are various accommodations, including French bedrooms and double rooms, thoughtfully dimensioned for comfort and adorned with natural materials.

A multi-level restaurant serves as a communal gathering space, designed to accommodate shared meals while elevating visitor engagement. Outdoor zones facilitate open-air meditation, seamlessly integrating with landscape elements, while dedicated agricultural areas—featuring greenhouses, fruit trees, and beekeeping plots—underscore a commitment to organic farming and self-sustainability. Access to parking is discreetly managed to minimize disruption to the tranquility of the setting.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations
The material palette reflects a commitment to both functionality and sustainability. The restoration of the original stone barn structure is complemented by steel frames, ensuring structural integrity while preserving historical elements. Extensive use of glass in meditation spaces fosters connectivity with the surrounding environment.

Natural pavers are utilized for walkways, optimizing aesthetics while contributing to ecological benefits through integrated grass holes. Playground structures crafted from sustainable Taek tree wood emphasize durability and environmental consciousness. Additionally, facilities for recycling and waste management enhance the project's ecological footprint, positioning it as a model of responsible design practices.

### Distinctive Features
The Stone Barn Meditation Centre is characterized by several noteworthy features. The approach to historical preservation adeptly maintains the original barn structure, bridging historical context with modern architectural elements. The integration of an innovative wastewater treatment facility showcases cutting-edge sustainable practices within the field. Moreover, the centre's comprehensive design promotes a holistic lifestyle, intertwining spaces for meditation, agriculture, dining, and community gatherings, thus reinforcing its role as a multifaceted environment dedicated to wellness.

The project emphasizes versatile facility use, catering to both individual and group activities, while fostering a harmonious interaction between its occupants and the natural landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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