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Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Surrounded by Natural Landscape Elements

Author:
Stefano Nicolussi
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Surrounded by Natural Landscape Elements

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and enhanced by charred wooden shingles, the meditation retreat integrates seamlessly into its natural environment, offering a tranquil space for reflection and wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from cross-laminated timber, enhancing sustainability and structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and an aesthetically appealing finish.
03
Underground garden integrated into the design fosters biodiversity and interactive experiences.
04
Natural ventilation systems optimize air quality while minimizing energy consumption.
05
A bent A-frame design contributes to functional space while blending with the natural topography.

## Project Overview

Located in Madona, Latvia, the meditation facility emphasizes a symbiotic relationship with the surrounding landscape, mirroring the region's rich forests and serene natural environments. The design seeks to integrate innovative architecture with a focus on sustainability and community engagement, providing a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.

### Spatial Dynamics

The layout comprises three distinct zones: a guest area for visitors, a mediation and relaxation zone featuring an underground garden and meditation chambers, and a private home for owners. This organization ensures comfort while facilitating connections to the natural surroundings. The geometry of the site is intricately linked to its environment, with careful consideration of existing trees and pathways. This thoughtful placement of building volumes promotes both privacy and communal interaction, employing a "shape-shaping" technique that harmonizes built forms with the natural landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Sustainability principles inform the selection of materials, highlighting an emphasis on ecologically responsible choices. The structural framework utilizes laminated timber (Klam wood) for its strength and environmental benefits, while aluminum and metal sheets are incorporated for their durability in roofing and cladding. Interior spaces feature plaster and concrete finishes, contributing to the overall aesthetic. Notably, the design includes green roof systems that integrate the building into the landscape, fostering microclimates that enhance cooling and insulation. Additionally, systems for water collection and recycling signify a commitment to resource management alongside the installation of photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy.

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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
competition now

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