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Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Light Within an Organic Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Marie Le roy, Caroline Jousset
Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Light Within an Organic Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and designed to maximize natural light, the cabin offers a serene environment for meditation immersed in the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to ensure structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views of the surrounding forest.
04
Includes a central opening in the roof for rainwater collection and improved ventilation.
05
Provides multiple communal seating areas designed to foster mindfulness and connection.
The Enso Meditation Cabin serves as a dedicated space for mindfulness and reflection, integrating architecture harmoniously with the natural environment. Situated within a forested area, the project focuses on creating an atmosphere conducive to meditation through thoughtful design and material selection. The cabin embodies the concept of "Enso," a symbol of completeness in Japanese culture, symbolizing enlightenment and the interconnectedness of nature and self. Its primary function is to provide an escape for individuals seeking tranquility and introspection.

Architecturally, the cabin features a unique organic form that resembles a protective shell. This design ensures that the structure not only serves as a physical space but also resonates with the emotional needs of its users. Key elements of the cabin's architecture include an outer shell made from wooden shingles, chosen for their warmth and visual appeal while blending seamlessly into the forest. The interior space is characterized by its dome-like ceiling that heightens the sense of openness and allows natural light to enhance the sensory experience. A central opening in the roof captures sunlight and rain, directly linking the interior with the external environment.

Materiality plays a fundamental role in the overall design. The primary materials used include wood for both the exterior cladding and structural framework, glass for natural light amplification, and natural stone for flooring, connecting users to the earth and grounding the experience. The integration of a fire pit within the meditation area serves as a focal point, promoting warmth and comfort, while seating areas around the perimeter invite communal engagement. Service areas are strategically incorporated, ensuring operational necessities do not detract from the serene experience.

Innovative design approaches distinguish the Enso Meditation Cabin from conventional structures. The emphasis on sustainable materials reflects a commitment to ecological integrity, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding landscape. The architecture focuses on creating a holistic user experience that fosters connection not only with nature but also with oneself. This focus on fluidity and the interplay of light and shadow throughout the space creates a vivid atmosphere ideal for meditation practices.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design elements of the Enso Meditation Cabin will provide valuable insights into its functional and aesthetic decisions. This unique project exemplifies how thoughtful architecture can create spaces that support personal growth and mindfulness.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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