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Circular Retreat Crafted From Glulam Timber Featuring Natural Stone Pathways

Authors:
Rebeca Rivera-pelayo, Danica Dasmarinas, Alejandro Pinon
Circular Retreat Crafted From Glulam Timber Featuring Natural Stone Pathways

Project in-detail

Crafted from glulam timber and characterized by a central circular skylight, this retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings to provide a serene space for meditation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced glulam timber to promote sustainability.
02
Incorporates a circular skylight that enhances natural light and connects users to the sky.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Designed with a fluid, open-plan layout to facilitate both individual and communal activities.
05
Set in a natural landscape that actively integrates the building with the surrounding environment.
The Koru Cabin is an architectural project designed to serve as a space for meditation and introspection, situated within a natural landscape that invites tranquility and reflection. Emphasizing the connection between the built environment and nature, the cabin embodies the principles of balance, serenity, and mindfulness. The project is not merely a structural endeavor; it represents a philosophy of living in harmony with one’s surroundings, encouraging individuals to engage with the elements around them and cultivate a deeper sense of being.

Functionally, the Koru Cabin acts as a dedicated retreat for meditation practices, providing an immersive environment that supports both personal reflection and communal gatherings. The architecture is meticulously planned to create a fluid flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to infuse the interior and fostering an inviting atmosphere. The cabin's design consists of a central circular area designated for meditation, complemented by flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate various group sizes, facilitating both communal activities and solitary contemplation.

Key elements of the design include the strategic use of glued laminated timber, which is the primary structural material. This choice provides not only strength and stability but also contributes to the cabin's aesthetic warmth and comfort. The use of timber aligns with the project’s commitment to sustainability, reinforcing the importance of utilizing local, renewable resources in architectural practices. The cabin's walls are characterized by vertical timber slats that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing for natural ventilation and views of the surrounding greenery while emphasizing a sense of openness.

A notable feature of the Koru Cabin is its circular skylight, positioned at the apex of the roof. This unique design approach symbolizes a connection to the universe, inviting in light while enhancing the meditative experience within. The skylight also promotes a dynamic interplay of shadow and light throughout the day, enriching the users' experience with a natural rhythm that encourages mindfulness and presence.

The cabin's layout is intuitively arranged to evoke a sense of flow, guiding individuals from the entrance through to the central meditation space. Adjacent areas are designed for active seating and informal gatherings, providing opportunities for individuals to engage with one another and share their experiences. This communal aspect of the design reflects a growing need for spaces that foster connections and collaborations, often missing in traditional architectures.

The careful integration of landscaping further enhances the Koru Cabin's relationship with nature. Natural stone pathways lead visitors to and from the cabin, grounded in the environment and emphasizing the tactile experience of approaching the space. This attention to detail underscores the project’s premise of grounding spiritual practices within a physical context that is both nurturing and inspiring.

The Koru Cabin stands out due to its ability to blend architectural innovation with natural simplicity, highlighting unique design approaches that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and the enhancement of well-being through architecture. By using a harmonious blend of materials and thoughtful spatial arrangements, the project ultimately provides an environment that nurtures introspection while being firmly rooted in its natural context.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the Koru Cabin, exploring various aspects of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and overall ideas will provide further insights into this thoughtfully conceived project. Discovering these elements can illuminate the intent behind the design and enhance appreciation for how architecture can cultivate an enriching relationship with the natural world.
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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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