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Circular Sanctuary of Timber and Concrete Enveloped in Nature

Authors:
Diane Stierli, Candice Baldy
Circular Sanctuary of Timber and Concrete Enveloped in Nature

Project in-detail

Set within a tranquil landscape, a circular space crafted from timber and concrete invites visitors to engage in meditation and reflection, emphasizing a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances flow and connection to nature.
02
Timber and concrete integration reflects sustainability goals.
03
Ladder features symbolize personal exploration and growth.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings.
05
Meditation space uses continuous curtains for a soft boundary.

The Earth Energies Sanctuary is a space designed for individuals seeking a connection to nature and personal reflection. Set against a tranquil landscape, the sanctuary promotes feelings of peace through its thoughtfully crafted spaces. The central concept emphasizes circular forms and open arrangements that encourage engagement with the environment. This location serves as a meditative retreat, aiming to help visitors reconnect both with the natural world and their inner selves.

Design Elements

Circular spaces create a sense of safety and warmth within the sanctuary. By forgoing traditional walls, the design incorporates continuous curtains. These elements enable a fluid boundary that invites a natural flow between inside and outside. This approach not only enhances the experience of meditation but also encourages deeper exploration and connection.

Natural Light

Natural light plays a vital role in shaping the interiors of the sanctuary. Openings have been carefully placed to allow sunlight to filter inside, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The shifting light throughout the day brings a lively energy to the interior, enriching the overall experience for those who enter.

Material Integration

Materials in the sanctuary are chosen for their practicality and visual appeal. Various forms of wood, such as roof battens, timber beams, and cladding, contribute to the inviting character of the space. The choice of these materials helps ground the design in its surroundings while ensuring durability. Insulation is also a part of the plan, promoting comfort and acknowledging environmental considerations.

Elevated Perspectives

Ladders within the sanctuary represent the journey of self-discovery. These features invite users to view their surroundings from new heights, enhancing their awareness of the landscape. The upward movement encourages contemplation, reinforcing the themes of personal growth and exploration integral to the sanctuary's purpose.

A circular opening at the top of the roof provides views of birds in flight, creating a link between indoor and outdoor spaces. This detail adds a layer of connection to the sky and the broader ecosystem, enriching the sanctuary's atmosphere. The experience of observing nature reinforces the intention behind the design, reminding visitors of their relationship with the world.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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