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Cross-Laminated Timber Habitat Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles for Mindful Living

Authors:
Yiki Liong, Aikaterini Lasithiotaki, Shi qi Tu
Cross-Laminated Timber Habitat Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this sustainable habitat offers a serene environment designed for yoga and mindfulness practices amidst the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof with integrated solar panels for energy efficiency.
02
Uses charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features large double-glazed panels for optimal natural light and thermal performance.
04
Designed with flexible interior spaces to accommodate various wellness activities.
05
Employs local stone for structural elements to strengthen regional connection.
The TreePod project is an architectural design that emphasizes functionality and environmental integration. Located in the Valley of the Moses, the project serves as a habitat designed for yoga practice and relaxation, aligning with the needs of users seeking a serene environment that fosters mental and physical well-being. The architectural approach prioritizes sustainable practices and interaction with the natural landscape, ensuring that the building complements its surroundings without overwhelming them.

In terms of design, the TreePod incorporates a flexible layout that supports various activities. The internal configuration includes designated spaces for yoga, communal gatherings, and private retreats, allowing for adaptability based on group size and user preferences. The structure is oriented to maximize natural light and views, utilizing large double-glazed panels that contribute to energy efficiency and comfort. The integration of natural ventilation strategies—through movable timber louvres—ensures optimal air quality while reducing reliance on artificial climate control.

Sustainability is a defining characteristic of the TreePod project. The use of local timber not only supports the regional economy but also minimizes transportation emissions. The structure employs a green roof equipped with solar panels, which enhances energy efficiency and promotes ecological advantages. Moreover, local stone is selectively utilized within the interiors, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and the natural context. The project’s design also incorporates eco-conscious water management through rainwater harvesting systems.

An essential aspect that distinguishes the TreePod from similar architectural endeavors is its commitment to user experience. The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces facilitates a direct engagement with nature, fostering a mindfulness practice that is integral to its intended use. The landscape surrounding the TreePod includes areas for gardening and relaxation, further enhancing the connection to the environment. Additionally, the adaptive nature of the interiors allows for varied programming possibilities, accommodating everything from individual yoga sessions to communal workshops.

For those interested in understanding this project more comprehensively, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a deeper insight into the ideas underpinning the TreePod. Examine the unique elements that contribute to its functionality and aesthetic coherence, and explore how the overall design aligns with contemporary architectural practices.
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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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