Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Concrete Structure Integrating Glass and Natural Elements for a Meditation Retreat

Author:
Ray Chen
Curvilinear Concrete Structure Integrating Glass and Natural Elements for a Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

A curvilinear concrete structure with extensive glass elements harmonizes with the natural landscape, designed to serve as a tranquil retreat for meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear roof design reflects local mountain contours.
02
Extensive use of glass fosters transparency and connection to nature.
03
Incorporates existing barn structure to preserve cultural heritage.
04
Employs passive design strategies for energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Uses charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.

## Overview

Located in Latvia, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is designed to provide a modern facility for meditation, emphasizing a connection to nature and fostering a space for mental and spiritual growth. The architecture is inspired by the local landscape, particularly the surrounding mountains, which serve as a significant spiritual symbol, providing a natural juxtaposition against the endless horizon. The design focuses on tranquility and sustainability, aiming to create an environment conducive to reflection and communal wellness.

## Spatial Composition and Design Intent

The facility is organized into two primary zones: a more private section dedicated to personal practices and a communal area designed for group activities such as yoga and exhibitions. This dual spatial arrangement allows for both introspection and social interaction, reflecting the varying needs of users. Central to the camp is the meditation hall and dark room, specifically designed for focused mindfulness practices, while residential spaces accommodate retreat attendees, promoting community engagement.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

A careful selection of materials underpins the design, employing concrete for structural integrity and an earthy aesthetic, while glass facilitates transparency and integrates the natural surroundings. The extensive use of large glass walls enhances daylight exposure, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and fostering a connection with the outdoors. Sustainable strategies, including optimized passive solar heating and effective cross-ventilation, further contribute to energy efficiency, while a greywater treatment system underscores the camp's commitment to environmental responsibility. These features collectively enhance the user experience while preserving the local ecosystem.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy