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Cork Walls Emphasizing Balance in a Reflection Cabin

Author:
Ioana-emilia Pop
Cork Walls Emphasizing Balance in a Reflection Cabin
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Constructed with cork walls and elevated on pillars, the cabin's design promotes a connection to nature while providing a tranquil space for reflection and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork walls provide natural insulation and sustainability.
02
Pillar-supported design adapts to various terrain conditions.
03
Two interconnected areas enhance reflective and meditative experiences.
04
Reclaimed wood frames reinforce environmental responsibility.
05
Yin and Yang principles guide the overall architectural layout.

The Cabin of Tranquility sits in Vale de Moses, designed as a retreat that prioritizes solitude and self-reflection. Inspired by the principles of Yin and Yang, the design emphasizes balance and harmony. Inside, the space is divided into two connected areas, promoting a calming atmosphere that encourages personal introspection.

Design Concept
The layout of the cabin is purposefully crafted to create a serene environment. Each area serves a different function, allowing for both quiet contemplation and connection with nature. This arrangement enhances a sense of balance, enabling visitors to engage deeply with their surroundings and facilitating a meaningful experience.

Materiality
Cork is used for the cabin's walls, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. This material is well-known in Portugal for its insulating properties, contributing to the comfort within. Additionally, reclaimed wood is employed for the frame and base, reinforcing the cabin’s focus on environmental responsibility and thoughtful resource use.

Structural Elements
Pillars form a significant part of the cabin’s structural design. They allow the building to adapt to different terrains and elevate the structure above the ground. This choice creates a relationship with the landscape that is both functional and visually appealing. It enhances the cabin's presence while providing necessary support.

Light filters through the spaces, casting gentle shadows that encourage a feeling of calm. The design invites individuals to reflect while immersed in nature, creating a harmonious atmosphere that aligns with its foundational principles. The careful attention to material and structure results in a space that is both practical and contemplative.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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