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Connecting Nature Through a Stone Wall and Polycarbonate Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Yaqing Tu, Nicole Law
Connecting Nature Through a Stone Wall and Polycarbonate Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

A seamless blend of a tactile stone wall and transparent polycarbonate, this meditation cabin invites guests to immerse themselves in nature while offering a tranquil space for reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin is designed without doors, promoting a continuous flow between the interior and exterior.
02
A substantial stone wall serves as both a visual focal point and a means to ground the structure in its natural setting.
03
Large polycarbonate panels maximize natural light while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest.
04
Timber cladding offers both aesthetic appeal and enhanced insulation, ensuring energy efficiency.
05
The layout features a circular path leading to the cabin, inviting exploration and connection with the landscape.
The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is an architectural project designed to foster a deep connection between individuals and the natural world. Nestled within the Earth Sanctuary property, surrounded by expansive farmland and a dense forest, this modest yet thoughtfully curated structure serves as a serene space for meditation and reflection. The project embodies the concept of harmonizing human presence with the environment, creating a functional retreat that encourages mindfulness and contemplation.

The architectural design of the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin emphasizes simplicity and accessibility. Central to its function is a stone wall that defines the entry path, inviting visitors to walk alongside it and interact with the landscape. This intentional design element promotes a sense of belonging and connection with nature as it serves as the primary transition between the exterior environment and the interior sanctuary. The absence of doors in the cabin design further emphasizes openness, allowing individuals to enter and exit in a fluid manner that encourages the freedom to engage with the surrounding natural elements.

The materials chosen for the construction of this meditation cabin play a significant role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the project. The predominant use of wooden cladding imparts warmth to the cabin's exterior, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the natural textures of wood harmonize with the polycarbonate sheets that form the roof and walls. These transparent panels flood the interior with natural light while offering unobstructed views of the forest, reinforcing the cabin's connection to its environment. Structural plywood is employed to ensure the integrity of the design, providing both strength and flexibility as required. Beneath it, concrete foundation beams offer stability, integrating the cabin into the landscape without disrupting its natural flow.

Unique design approaches emerge throughout the project, particularly in how the architecture respects and complements the natural terrain. The meditation cabin’s layout is carefully curated to enhance the user experience. Visitors can appreciate the beauty of the wild landscape while enjoying dedicated spaces for personal reflection or group meditation. This thoughtful arrangement highlights the importance of both individual solitude and the potential for communal engagement, inviting various experiences tailored to the needs of the users.

Additionally, the design of the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin showcases a careful balance between hard and soft materials. The robust stone wall grounds the structure, creating a sense of permanence and connection to the earth. In contrast, the use of lightweight wooden elements and the airy quality provided by polycarbonate materials convey a sense of openness and tranquility. This interplay between substantial and delicate materials not only enhances the visual interest of the cabin but also supports the overall goal of promoting peaceful coexistence with nature.

As an architectural project, the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin stands as a testament to the possibilities of creating functional spaces that not only serve their intended purposes but also enrich the user's connection to the environment. By combining mindful design principles with thoughtful material choices, this meditation cabin illustrates how architecture can be both simple and profound. The project offers a serene environment for those seeking respite and reflection, fostering a deeper appreciation for the surrounding landscape.

For those interested in exploring the architectural vision behind the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin further, the project presentation contains architectural plans, sections, and various design ideas that provide deeper insights into the design philosophy. Engaging with these elements will enhance understanding of how this architecture aligns with the intent of creating a harmonious blend of structure and nature.
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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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