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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping A Solitary Retreat Designed for Dark Meditation

Authors:
Sevcan Pazı, Hüseyin melih Baktır
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping A Solitary Retreat Designed for Dark Meditation

Project in-detail

Nestled within a tranquil forest, a cabin clad in charred wooden shingles invites visitors to immerse themselves in the profound experience of dark retreat meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a completely lightproof upper meditation room to enhance the dark retreat experience.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and improved weather resistance for durability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used in the construction to offer structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
04
A sloped roof design preserves surrounding trees and maintains a harmonious relationship with the natural landscape.
05
The building’s design incorporates minimal openings to control light and sound, facilitating deeper meditation.
The "Dark Room" project represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture as a medium for personal introspection and meditation. Located in the serene village of Ozolīni, this design is rooted in the principles of dark retreat meditation, a practice that prioritizes solitude and the removal of external distractions to facilitate inner discovery. The architectural design focuses on creating a space that enhances the user’s experience of contemplation through its thoughtful integration into the natural landscape, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic harmony.

At its core, the project serves as a meditation cabin, designed to allow individuals to engage with their inner selves in a tranquil environment. The structure is divided into two primary areas: the upper-level "Dark Room," which is dedicated to meditation, and the ground-level "Nature Room," which encourages communal interaction with the surroundings. This functional zoning is essential to the project, as it ensures that users have spaces for both individual reflection and social gathering, fostering a sense of community without sacrificing personal retreat.

The architectural approach taken in the "Dark Room" project is notable for its unique relationship with the site it occupies. The design reflects a careful consideration of the surrounding natural features, with a sharp roofline that minimizes impact on existing trees while creating a visually engaging silhouette against the sky. This not only promotes environmental ethics but also reinforces the connection between the built environment and the natural world. The choice of materials, including wood, stone, and glass, enhances the structure’s organic integration into its surroundings, adding warmth and durability while maintaining visual continuity with the landscape.

Particularly striking is the design of the meditation space itself, which is constructed to be entirely devoid of natural light. This intentional absence of light creates an immersive environment conducive to deep meditation, allowing users to disconnect from the sensory overload of modern life. The cleverly designed openings, strategically positioned to frame views of the nature room and the outdoors, serve to remind users of their surroundings while simultaneously offering them the opportunity to retreat into darkness. This carefully calibrated balance speaks to the architectural philosophy of the project, where the design outcomes are meticulously aligned with the intended function of the space.

In addition to the meditation room, the Nature Room on the ground floor is designed with social interaction in mind. It provides a space for guests to relax, engage in conversation, and connect with the landscape surrounding the cabin. With its functional amenities, including storage and restroom facilities, this area allows for a complete experience, ensuring that visitors can comfortably spend extended periods within this tranquil setting.

The integration of sustainability into the project’s design is significant. The use of natural materials resonates with the local vernacular and decreases the building’s carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable architectural practice. The design not only respects the ecological integrity of the site but also aligns with the growing trend towards constructing buildings that nurture rather than exploit the environment.

Overall, the "Dark Room" project exemplifies a comprehensive approach to architecture through its intentional design, functional spaces, and environmental sensitivity. It encourages a deeper engagement with meditation and nature, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary architectural discourse. For those interested in exploring the nuances of this design, viewing the architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas can provide further insight into the thought processes underpinning this contemplative retreat. Engaging directly with the project presentation offers an opportunity to appreciate the detailed design outcomes and overarching philosophy that inform this architectural endeavor.
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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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