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Clerestory Windows and Terracotta Roofs in a Serene Meditation Retreat

Author:
Portia Strahan
Clerestory Windows and Terracotta Roofs in a Serene Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

With clerestory windows that maximize natural light and a terracotta roof designed for efficient rainwater management, the meditation retreat offers a tranquil space for mindfulness and reflection in harmony with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clerestory windows provide abundant natural light and offer views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The terracotta roof is designed specifically for efficient rainwater management.
03
Rollable storage partitions allow for flexible use of interior spaces.
04
Warm patterned wood walls enhance the sensory experience of the interior.
05
Wooden boardwalks connect the cabins, promoting engagement with the natural environment.

The VALE DE MOSES Meditation Cabin is located in a peaceful landscape that encourages quiet reflection and mindfulness. Designed as a space for meditation and therapy, it blends indoors with the outdoors effectively. The overall focus is on creating an environment that promotes calmness and well-being for users.

Structural Design

The cabin features a small vestibule that acts as a transition zone. Here, guests can prepare for their meditation or therapy sessions. This area ensures privacy and comfort, both important for an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. Inside, rollable storage partitions are included to provide flexibility, allowing easy access to necessary items such as towels and mats.

Interior Space

In the main area, high sloping ceilings are combined with clerestory windows, which bring in a lot of natural light. This design creates a bright and inviting space for users. The warm patterned wood walls add to the cozy atmosphere and help foster a sense of connection with the nature outside.

Spatial Connectivity

One of the unique aspects of the VALE DE MOSES Cabin is its ability to open fully on all sides. Sliding and accordion doors allow for an easy flow of air and light. The custom-patterned screen doors help filter light and control ventilation, making the interior comfortable throughout the day.

Environmental Integration

Wooden boardwalks connect the meditation cabins, providing pathways that link the structures to one another. This thoughtful layout creates outdoor gathering spots that encourage interaction and relaxation in the natural surroundings. The focus on blending built and natural environments helps enhance the experience for all who visit.

The hipped terracotta roof works to manage rainwater effectively, complementing the overall design. Each detail reflects a careful consideration for the relationship between the cabin and the surrounding landscape, offering a tranquil space for personal growth and introspection.

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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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