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Curved Retreat Crafted from White Fabric and Natural Wood in Urban Tokyo

Authors:
Santiago manuel Perez asis, Delfina Flores Gabellieri, Darío Emilio Hernando Arevalo
Curved Retreat Crafted from White Fabric and Natural Wood in Urban Tokyo

Project in-detail

Crafted from white fabric and natural wood, these curved cabins redefine the urban experience in Tokyo by offering flexible, tranquil retreats designed for meditation and solitude.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design enhances panoramic views while minimizing visual barriers.
02
Modular configuration allows for easy relocation and reassembly.
03
Constructed with recyclable materials to support environmental goals.
04
White fabric serves as both a thermal insulator and aesthetic element.
05
Compact footprint of 5 square meters maximizes urban space efficiency.
The Reconection Cabins project presents a distinct architectural response to the challenges of urban living in Tokyo. Designed to offer a sanctuary from the demands of the city, these cabins are emblematic of contemporary ideas in user-focused design. Each cabin functions as a micro-environment, encouraging reflection, meditation, and a reconnection to one’s surroundings within an otherwise hectic urban context. The project emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, aiming to transform underutilized spaces into functional retreats.

Design Approach and Unique Features

One defining characteristic of the Reconection Cabins is their unique spatial configuration. With a floor space of 5 square meters, each cabin features a fluid, curved design that minimizes the visual barriers typically associated with conventional architecture. This form promotes panoramic views and creates an inviting atmosphere within the compact area. The modular nature of these cabins enables easy relocation and reconfiguration, distinguishing them from static structures found in the urban landscape.

The construction materiality of the cabins further sets them apart. The use of white fabric serves multiple functional purposes, functioning as a thermal and solar filter while contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal. Natural wood and curved timbers create a warm, inviting interior, while metal rods provide structural integrity. This thoughtful choice of materials prioritizes sustainability, as they are recyclable and reduce the overall environmental impact of the design.

User Experience and Urban Integration

The user experience within the Reconection Cabins is enhanced by their flexible design and the calming influence of the materials used. The cabins are intended to foster solitude and relaxation, allowing individuals to step away from their daily routines. Their placement in areas often overlooked by urban planners underscores a commitment to revealing the potential of neglected spaces within the city. By integrating these cabins into Tokyo’s urban fabric, the project not only addresses the need for quiet spaces but also contributes to the overall aesthetic enhancement of the environment.

The innovative design and strategic placement of the cabins highlight the project’s unique contribution to urban architecture. The ability for users to reconfigure the cabins according to their needs epitomizes a modern approach to space utilization while promoting a sense of community.

Explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the Reconection Cabins to gain a deeper understanding of this project. Dive into the architectural ideas that drive this design and discover the thoughtful solutions implemented to engage with Tokyo’s urban landscape.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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