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Circular Retreat Crafted with Green Concrete and Timber Facade for Mindfulness Practice

Authors:
Sofya Smirnova, Marianna-janika Gontšar, Oksana Karula, Endri Soomere
Circular Retreat Crafted with Green Concrete and Timber Facade for Mindfulness Practice

Project in-detail

Crafted with a sustainable green concrete and a warm timber façade, the circular structure invites tranquility and mindfulness, perfectly designed for yoga practice and personal reflection amid the serene Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a unique circular design that promotes a sense of flow and connection with nature.
02
Sustainable materials such as green concrete and locally sourced timber are used to minimize environmental impact.
03
Large glass panels are strategically placed to enhance natural light and views of the surrounding forest.
04
The layout includes a versatile yoga studio at its core, facilitating both individual reflection and communal activities.
05
Wooden terraces create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging immersion in the tranquil landscape.
The Kolka Cabin is a meticulously designed architectural project located in the serene landscape of Cape Kolka, Latvia. This cabin represents a harmonious fusion of architecture and nature, designed with a clear focus on wellness and personal growth. It serves as a sanctuary for yoga practice and reflection, integrating principles that facilitate both individual and communal experiences.

The primary function of the Kolka Cabin is to create a space that fosters relaxation, mindfulness, and connection to nature. At its core, the architecture promotes well-being through thoughtful design that encourages social interaction while also allowing for personal retreat. The spatial organization is carefully crafted, featuring a central yoga studio surrounded by private bedrooms and communal areas. This arrangement allows individuals to engage in personal reflection while maintaining easy access to collective activities, thereby ensuring that the cabin serves both private and public functions.

A key aspect that sets the Kolka Cabin apart is its innovative use of materials and forms. The project employs sustainable materials, including green concrete and timber, which not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the building but also significantly reduce its environmental impact. The use of large glass panels is particularly noteworthy, as they facilitate a seamless connection between the indoor environment and the exterior landscape. This design choice invites natural light to permeate the interiors, creating a sense of openness and transparency that enhances the overall user experience.

The semi-circular form of the cabin is another defining characteristic. Inspired by the concepts of yoga and natural cycles, the circular design promotes a flow that guides occupants through the space. This form reflects the project's philosophical foundation, encouraging a sense of continuity and balance. The roof slopes gradually, echoing the natural contours of the landscape, while also accommodating the function of the yoga studio with its height and expansive volume.

Critical to the design is the consideration of adaptability. Every area within the Kolka Cabin is designed to be multifunctional. The yoga studio can easily be transformed for various activities, fostering an environment that is dynamic and responsive to the needs of its users. This versatility is instrumental in promoting community engagement and collaboration, aligning with the project’s emphasis on social well-being.

Natural elements play a significant role within the Kolka Cabin, enhancing not only its aesthetic appeal but also its atmospheric qualities. The incorporation of wooden terraces allows for smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, reinforcing the connection to the surrounding forest. This interaction with nature is central to the cabin's function as a retreat, encouraging occupants to immerse themselves in the tranquility of their setting.

The design outcomes of the Kolka Cabin are indicative of a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture. The intelligent use of space, combined with sustainability and adaptability, creates a structure that meets the needs of modern living while respecting its ecological context. This architectural project represents a shift in design philosophy, where the focus is not merely on aesthetics, but on creating environments that support well-being and connection.

For those interested in understanding the specifics of the Kolka Cabin, including its architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas, there is much to explore. Engaging with the detailed representations of this project will provide deeper insights into the unique design approaches that characterize this remarkable cabin. The integration of form, function, and environmental consciousness exemplified in the Kolka Cabin highlights a progressive path for future architectural endeavors.
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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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