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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping A Meditative Retreat in Cross-Laminated Timber Design

Author:
Minkyum Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping A Meditative Retreat in Cross-Laminated Timber Design

Project in-detail

Nestled within the tranquil woods, a meditative retreat showcases charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, creating a harmonious space designed for introspection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance while echoing local building traditions.
02
Features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that provide unobstructed forest views and maximize natural light throughout the cabin.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity, offering both sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes a dedicated meditation space with strategically placed skylights to encourage a connection with the changing environment.
05
Designed to promote airflow, enhancing indoor comfort while maintaining an intimate connection with the surrounding nature.
The architectural project, titled “Empty Space,” is a contemplative cabin designed to foster a deep connection with nature and promote meditation. Situated within a densely wooded area, the design intention is to create a serene environment that encourages occupants to engage in reflection and mindfulness. This modest structure is articulated around the theme of emptiness, enabling users to experience tranquility through simplicity and intentionality.

The primary function of “Empty Space” is to provide a retreat, where individuals can disconnect from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in peaceful surroundings. The cabin is designed not just as a physical structure but as a space that facilitates personal discovery and quiet contemplation. It serves as a backdrop for activities such as reading, artistic creation, and meditation, all while maintaining a close relationship with the natural environment.

The spatial organization of the cabin is thoughtfully crafted. It features two levels: a ground floor dedicated to communal activities and a first floor that hosts a dedicated meditation area. The layout maximizes comfort while ensuring that each space serves a specific purpose. The integration of large windows and innovative openings enhances the immersive experience, allowing ample natural light to filter through. This flood of light not only brightens the interior but also creates visual connections to the surrounding forest, bringing the outside in.

A standout aspect of the design is the meditation space, located on the upper level. Here, the ceiling integrates skylights that draw natural light into the core of the cabin. The strategic placement of these openings allows not only illumination but also an auditory experience, with the soft sounds of nature filtering inside. This design choice enhances the overall meditative atmosphere, offering users a unique sensory experience that evolves throughout the day as light and sound change.

The materiality of “Empty Space” plays a crucial role in its architectural identity. The cabin primarily utilizes wood, encompassing various types such as pine, cedar, and spruce. These materials are selected for their warmth and durability, allowing the structure to resonate harmoniously with its wooded surroundings. Glass elements feature prominently throughout, particularly in the expansive windows and skylights that help dissolve boundaries between the interior and the landscape. Steel may also be incorporated in structural elements to ensure stability while adhering to a minimalist aesthetic.

Unique design approaches employed in this project include an emphasis on the relationship between light and sound and thoughtful spatial thresholds. The roof's design, with its narrow skylights, channels daylight into the central meditation area while enabling external sounds to weave through the space. The result is an environment that feels alive, with a strong connection to the rhythms of nature.

Another notable feature is the careful consideration of interactivity with the environment. Each area serves a distinct function—relaxation, activity, and meditation—while maintaining intentional connections through sightlines and openings. This flow encourages users to move seamlessly between spaces, fostering a greater sense of presence and engagement with their surroundings.

In summary, “Empty Space” is an architectural project that embodies simplicity and functionality, designed to promote a contemplative lifestyle. Through careful spatial organization, an emphasis on natural elements, and a focus on materiality, the cabin invites individuals to explore their inner thoughts and reconnect with the environment. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this thoughtful design, including its architectural plans, sections, and ideas, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for more details.
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MICROHOME
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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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