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Curved Roofs and Perforated Metal Panels Define a Sustainable Retreat in Natural Surroundings

Author:
Carlos Elias
Curved Roofs and Perforated Metal Panels Define a Sustainable Retreat in Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

With a curved roof and perforated metal facade designed to enhance energy efficiency, this retreat offers a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and sustainability for meditation and eco-tourism.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a silence chamber, enhancing deep meditation experiences.
02
Curved roofs are engineered to optimize natural light and views.
03
Perforated metal panels facilitate passive ventilation and thermal insulation.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to support sustainable water usage.
05
Existing stone structures are preserved, blending history with modern design.

### Overview

Located in Vidzeme, Latvia, the Meditation Camp is designed to serve as an eco-tourism and meditation facility that respects the local landscape and cultural heritage. The project focuses on integrating existing structures and employing innovative construction techniques to create an environment conducive to meditation and eco-friendly practices. By anticipating contemporary trends in sustainable tourism, the facility aims to educate guests about sustainable resource use while providing a serene retreat for relaxation and introspection.

### Site Integration and Landscape Harmony

The camp is situated within a dense natural setting, characterized by abundant trees and expansive views. The design preserves an existing stone structure, which is complemented by a contemporary extension that incorporates modern amenities without detracting from the historical context of the original building. The arrangement of spaces enhances natural light intake and ensures visual connections with the surrounding landscape, promoting a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Architectural Features and User Experience

The architectural elements combine traditional and contemporary design principles, evident in the smooth lines and expansive roof that provide panoramic vistas. Key materials include perforated metal panels for thermal insulation, insulated glass windows for maximizing natural light efficiency, and wood accents that enhance interior warmth. The building layout includes event rooms, guest accommodations for 21 individuals, and dedicated meditation areas, fostering opportunities for group interaction while maintaining areas for solitude. An operable glass-walled transition space between the old and new structures facilitates engagement, allowing users to appreciate both architectural styles and promoting communal activities in a tranquil setting.

The incorporation of solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system emphasizes sustainability, reducing reliance on external resources and aligning with eco-friendly practices. The overall design reflects a commitment to efficient energy use, community engagement, and architectural coherence, affirming the camp's role as a model for future eco-tourism developments.

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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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