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Conical Retreat Crafted From Reed Emphasizing Solitude and Meditation

Authors:
Matvey Genne, Polina Vasina, Marselo Rueda
Conical Retreat Crafted From Reed Emphasizing Solitude and Meditation

Project in-detail

Constructed with a conical shape from reed, the cabin provides a focused space for meditation and solitude within a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from locally sourced reed.
02
Features a clear division between household and spiritual areas.
03
Designed to maximize natural light through strategic openings.
04
Central meditation space illuminated from the cone's apex.
05
Includes sustainable systems for rainwater harvesting and waste management.

The architectural design features a cabin prototype that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Located in a natural landscape, the structure serves both as a living space and a retreat for meditation. The design focuses on blending with the surroundings, creating a calm environment for reflection.

Monolithic Volume

The cabin takes the shape of a cone, which reduces the amount of material needed while ensuring stability. This form complements the local topography and lowers the visual impact on the landscape. The design uses local materials for construction, primarily reed, which supports sustainability and connects the building to its environment.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the cabin is divided into two main areas: one for living and one for spiritual practice. This clear separation enhances usability while encouraging quiet contemplation. The design makes good use of natural light, allowing it to flow through well-positioned openings. This creates an interplay between the indoor and outdoor spaces, helping occupants feel more connected to nature.

Meditation Space

The top of the cone directs focus toward a central area intended for meditation. This space receives ample light, promoting a soothing atmosphere. It encourages users to engage in reflection, making the cabin an ideal location for solitude. The structure acts as a private space, providing an environment conducive to peaceful thought.

Sustainable Features

The cabin includes practical features that enhance comfort and support eco-friendly living. Systems for harvesting rainwater and managing biological waste contribute to its sustainability. Additionally, a fireplace adds warmth, while the design of the front and back facades maintains a consistent look throughout the structure.

The internal surfaces are designed with smooth finishes and warm hues, creating an inviting atmosphere. These details foster a sense of comfort, enhancing the experience for those who use the space.

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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
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