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Curved Wooden Sanctuary with Translucent Glazing for Meditative Retreat

Authors:
Eduardo Acevedo, Irina Salas
Curved Wooden Sanctuary with Translucent Glazing for Meditative Retreat
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A curved wooden wall creates an intimate meditation space illuminated by natural light filtering through expansive glazing, offering a tranquil retreat designed for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved wooden wall enhances intimacy in the meditation area.
02
Expansive glazing blurs boundaries between interior and nature.
03
Treated wood exterior promotes durability against weather elements.
04
Interior spaces use birch veneer plywood for a calming effect.
05
Design creates distinct zones for both solitude and connection.

The Duality Cabin introduces a modern approach that embraces the idea of duality, focusing on balance between different elements in its design. Located in a natural setting, the cabin functions as a space for meditation and self-reflection. The overall design connects deeply with the surrounding landscape, inviting residents to appreciate the simplicity of the environment while considering the dual aspects of life.

Design Concept

Incorporating the yin-yang philosophy, the design delves into the relationship between light and darkness, as well as between active and passive states. This concept shapes the architectural elements, offering visitors a chance to explore various dimensions of their experience. The cabin presents a clear and straightforward geometry, avoiding unnecessary details, which emphasizes its purpose and functionality.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the cabin promotes natural movement between open and enclosed areas. A curved wall serves as a welcoming entrance, guiding visitors into the main room while setting the tone for their experience. The design creates distinct zones that facilitate both interaction and solitude. The extensive glass wall allows natural light to filter into the space, effectively merging the indoor environment with the outdoors and fostering a sense of connection with nature.

Materiality

Materials are thoughtfully chosen to complement the cabin’s aesthetic and usability. The exterior is finished with treated wood, which enhances durability and establishes a relational bond with the environment. Inside, birch veneer plywood is used to create a warm and calming atmosphere. The materials work together to support the design's focus on minimalism and peace, contributing to the cabin’s overall meditative quality.

Aesthetic Detail

Key design features highlight the exploration of duality throughout the cabin. The curved wooden wall creates an intimate meditation space, contrasting with the transparent glass wall. This contrast between solid and fragile elements creates an engaging dialogue, inviting occupants to experience both the enclosure and openness of the space. Light plays an important role here, as it filters through the glass, casting gentle shadows and enhancing the natural textures of the wood, deepening the sensory experience within the cabin.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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