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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Integration Create a Sanctuary for Mindfulness

Authors:
faizul hassan, zakir ali, abdul basit, naveed ahmad
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Integration Create a Sanctuary for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

With its distinctive charred wooden shingles and seamless integration of natural materials, the design offers a tranquil retreat that fosters mindfulness and deep connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Integrates a biogas harvesting system for sustainable energy use on-site.
05
Includes outdoor meditation spaces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape for enhanced tranquility.
The project in focus is a thoughtfully designed architectural endeavor known as the Meditation House, located in Latvia. This architectural project represents a sanctuary focused on fostering connection with both the natural environment and the inner self, creating an environment that is both calming and restorative. The fundamental function of the Meditation House is to serve as a retreat for individuals seeking mindfulness and spiritual reflection. It is thoughtfully constructed to provide a space where users can engage in meditation practices, yoga sessions, and quiet contemplation while surrounded by the serene tranquility of nature.

The design of the Meditation House emphasizes harmony and coherence with its natural surroundings. It incorporates a series of interconnected spaces that invite occupants to explore different states of being. The architectural layout promotes movement through the site, with pathways leading to outdoor meditation areas, yoga decks, and reflective gardens. Each area is strategically placed to maximize views of the landscape and provide a natural backdrop for the users' experiences.

Key components of the project include a central corridor that connects different functional spaces, such as meditation halls, communal areas for group activities, and private rooms for individual reflection. The thoughtful organization allows users to transition smoothly between indoor and outdoor environments, fostering a sense of continuity and flow that is central to the experience the house aims to provide.

Materiality plays a significant role in the design approach of the Meditation House. The use of natural materials, including wood and stone, reinforces the connection to nature while ensuring durability and sustainability. Glass is integrated to maximize natural light, creating luminous spaces that enhance the overall ambiance of the interior. Furthermore, the thatched roof is a traditional element that connects the contemporary structure with local architectural vernacular, highlighting a thoughtful consideration of the region’s cultural context.

One of the unique design approaches employed in the Meditation House is the integration of water features and green spaces throughout the site. This not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall sensory experience of the environment. The presence of water promotes tranquility, while the arrangement of greenery provides a sense of enclosure and privacy, essential for introspective activities. The careful placements of these elements serve to encourage a deep interaction between the occupants and the nature surrounding them.

Another defining characteristic is the emphasis on light and air movement throughout the architecture. Skylights and strategically positioned windows facilitate natural ventilation and daylighting, further merging the interior spaces with the outdoor environment. This not only reduces energy consumption but also creates environments conducive to relaxation and meditation, allowing users to experience the play of light throughout different times of the day.

Sustainability is woven into the architectural design on multiple levels. The use of renewable materials, the emphasis on natural light, and the implementation of a biogas harvesting system are examples of how the Meditation House aligns with eco-friendly practices. These design strategies reflect a growing awareness within the architectural community of the need for responsible and sustainable building practices.

The Meditation House exemplifies an architectural project that prioritizes user experience, connection to nature, and sustainability. It serves as a model for designs that look to blend the built environment with natural landscapes while offering users a unique space for reflection and rejuvenation. Those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and the innovative architectural ideas that informed its development, are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its significance and impact.
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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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