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Curved Retreat Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Museong Kim
Curved Retreat Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Inspired by organic forms, the design incorporates curved structures made from cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles to create a tranquil meditation hub that emphasizes connectivity with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by natural forms, the design features a fluid, curved structure that enhances spatial experience.
02
Constructed primarily from cross-laminated timber panels, ensuring sustainability and structural integrity.
03
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
The interior includes multiple meditation zones arranged around a central street tree, fostering a sense of community.
05
Natural light infiltration is maximized through strategically placed openings, enhancing the tranquil environment.
The “Contemplation” architectural project presents a thoughtful and functional design dedicated to fostering wellness and self-reflection amid urban environments. It serves as a meditation hub, thoughtfully integrated into its surroundings to provide a serene space for users to disconnect from the demands of modern life. This project emphasizes tranquility and reconnection with nature, aiming to create an environment that promotes mental well-being.

The architecture features a unique form characterized by sweeping organic shapes. This fluidity in design mimics natural elements, contributing to an inviting appearance that encourages exploration and interaction. The building's integration with planting areas and potential water features enhances its connection to the natural world, promoting biodiversity and providing users with a calming atmosphere.

Sustainable materials play a crucial role in the project’s execution. The use of wood panels not only offers warmth and texture but also aligns with ecological principles. The incorporation of soft fabric elements further moderates the visual experience, creating a barrier that retains privacy while allowing for interaction with the environment. The proposed glass elements would enhance transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces.

The design includes various seating arrangements and quiet zones that cater to individual needs, facilitating both communal and solitary reflection. Aligning seating around a central "street tree" cultivates a focal point, encouraging social interaction and environmental engagement.

What distinguishes this project from conventional meditation spaces is its emphasis on integrating nature within an urban framework. The architectural choices prioritize comfort and security, making the hub a welcoming retreat for a diverse audience. The project refrains from imposing rigid architectural frameworks, instead opting for shapes that facilitate movement and fluidity within the space.

Overall, the “Contemplation” project represents a commitment to creating functional architecture that prioritizes user experience and environmental integration. Its careful selection of materials and innovative design solutions set it apart from typical architectural interventions in urban landscapes. Readers interested in the project are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into this thoughtful design approach.
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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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