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Clerestory-Enhanced Oak Retreat for Urban Reflection

Author:
Sean Solowski
Clerestory-Enhanced Oak Retreat for Urban Reflection

Project in-detail

Constructed with oak and enhanced by clerestory windows, the Capsule provides a compact sanctuary for meditation within the bustling urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clerestory windows allow natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
The structure is designed to be easily relocatable in urban environments.
03
Interior finishes include oak timber cladding for a warm atmosphere.
04
Genkan entry step features integrated shoe storage for cleanliness.
05
Rooftop solar panels enhance sustainability and energy efficiency.

The Kanso Capsule offers a peaceful escape from the fast pace of urban life. Located in busy areas such as transit stations and commercial centers, the Capsule serves as a space for meditation and reflection. Influenced by the Japanese philosophy of "Kanso," the design focuses on simplicity and minimalism. This approach helps create a calming atmosphere for those who seek quiet in a bustling world.

Design Inspiration
The shape of the Kanso Capsule draws on the form of a mature tree, embodying the qualities of stability and balance. This design choice connects the structure to nature while ensuring it meets the practical needs of urban users. The exterior form reflects a commitment to blending with the environment, while still providing a functional space for retreat.

Interior Configuration
Inside, the Capsule is designed to foster comfort and tranquility. Natural materials create an inviting setting ideal for meditation. The foldaway control panel allows users to select guided meditations and adjust environmental settings, making the space adaptable to different needs. This attention to detail enhances the overall user experience, ensuring that the environment supports relaxation.

Innovative Features
Notable features include a Genkan entry step that provides shoe storage and clerestory windows that limit the entry of city light while maintaining privacy. The structure is light enough for easy relocation, allowing it to serve various urban contexts. Sustainability plays a significant role, with a micro-grid utility connection and solar panels on the roof that support energy efficiency.

The interior finishes contribute to the calming environment. Oak timber cladding and black stained oak flooring help create a warm atmosphere. Sound-absorbing felt panels enhance quietness, reinforcing the Capsule’s purpose as a peaceful space for meditation and inner reflection.

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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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