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Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Integrating Charred Wood Shingles for Serene Meditation

Author:
Lee Halwa
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Integrating Charred Wood Shingles for Serene Meditation

Project in-detail

Cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles create a tranquil meditation cabin that harmonizes with its natural setting, designed to facilitate introspection and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and create a tactile exterior.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the cabin.
04
Strategic window placement fosters a connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Dedicated meditation zones encourage mindfulness and introspection in a compact footprint.
The meditation cabin located in Vale de Moses, Portugal, is a carefully crafted architectural project designed as a sanctuary for reflection and meditation. Set against the backdrop of serene mountainous terrain, the cabin integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, achieving a balance between the built environment and the landscape. This structure encompasses approximately 19.56 square meters and aims to provide its occupants with a tranquil space conducive to introspection and self-discovery.

The design of the cabin emphasizes the journey of the user, starting from the pathway that leads to the entrance. The approach is carefully designed to evoke a sense of anticipation, encouraging users to leave their external worries behind. Inside, the layout features distinct zones tailored for meditation, promoting mindfulness and solitude. The overall aesthetic employs a minimal color palette, fostering an atmosphere that aligns with the cabin’s intended purpose.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

One of the defining characteristics of this project is its innovative use of materials. The cabin is constructed primarily from cross-laminated timber, ensuring structural integrity while emphasizing sustainability. The use of wood shingles on the roof complements the rustic atmosphere while allowing for effective thermal performance. Natural stone has been incorporated at the base of the structure, adding both thermal mass and durability. Additionally, tinted films on the windows provide privacy while modulating light, contributing to the serene ambiance of the interior.

Architectural elements such as triangular forms and rounded openings create dynamic visual compositions throughout the cabin, enhancing the spatial experience. The asymmetry in the roofline not only adds an aesthetic dimension but also enhances natural light penetration, vital for a space dedicated to mindfulness. Passive cooling and heating strategies further highlight the project’s ecological principles, promoting energy efficiency and comfort.

Functional Zones and Layout

Inside the cabin, strategic zoning ensures multi-functionality without compromising the essence of the space. The design includes areas for individual reflection, meditation, and relaxation. The spatial configuration encourages movement through the cabin, with each area providing unique visual and experiential qualities. This layout effectively facilitates a transition from external interactions to an inward focus, embodying the central theme of the project.

The technical integration of sustainable fixtures, including LED lighting and smart water technologies, underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility. These elements are seamlessly woven into the design to ensure user convenience without detracting from the overall aesthetic or function.

For those interested in a more in-depth understanding of the meditation cabin, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide valuable insights into this thoughtful and well-executed project. The presentation encapsulates the careful consideration given to both form and function, contributing to a well-rounded architectural narrative.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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