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Curvilinear Structure Featuring Hempcrete and Recycled Rubber As a Retreat for Mindfulness

Author:
Stephanie Lee
Curvilinear Structure Featuring Hempcrete and Recycled Rubber As a Retreat for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Constructed with a curvilinear form using hempcrete and recycled rubber, the meditation cabin offers a sustainable retreat designed for mindfulness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with hempcrete for enhanced insulation and sustainability.
02
Features recycled rubber roofing tiles made from 80% repurposed materials.
03
Includes murals created from recycled glass bottles, integrating art and ecology.
04
The design emphasizes large glazed windows for optimal natural light and views.
05
Configured with a curvilinear shape that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
The meditation cabin, known as the Shala, is a carefully designed architectural project situated in a natural landscape that prioritizes sustainability and wellness. This structure serves as a tranquil environment for meditation, encouraging introspection and connection to nature. The design integrates modern architectural principles with a strong emphasis on ecological responsibility.

The Shala illustrates a commitment to creating spaces that enhance mindfulness practices while minimizing environmental impact. By embracing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, the project seeks to harmonize with its surroundings, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor experiences. The cabin’s architecture promotes a sense of community and serves as a retreat from urban life.

Sustainable Materiality and Design Integration

The Shala stands out due to its unique use of materials and innovative design strategies. The primary building material is hempcrete, a naturally insulating composite made from hemp fibers and lime. This material is not only eco-friendly but also contributes to the building's thermal performance, reducing energy consumption.

In addition to hempcrete, recycled rubber roof tiles are utilized, derived from 80% recycled content. This selection contributes to the building's overall sustainability while providing durability and performance. The incorporation of recycled glass bottle murals within the hempcrete walls adds a creative aesthetic, reinforcing the project’s eco-conscious ethos.

The architectural design emphasizes large glazed windows, which serve multiple purposes. They allow natural light to penetrate the interior while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. This connection to the outdoors is integral to the Shala, as it encourages inhabitants to engage with the natural environment.

Innovative Functional Spaces

The interior layout of the Shala is designed with careful consideration of sunlight orientation, ensuring optimal natural light for meditation activities. Dedicated areas such as the Flower Essence Processing section contribute to the holistic experience available within the cabin, allowing for specific practices that enhance user engagement with nature.

The building’s overall form is characterized by gentle curves and an extended roof, which not only provides shelter but also connects the architectural design with the organic shapes found in the natural world. This approach invites occupants to appreciate the interplay between constructed space and the environment.

The Shala exemplifies a design that prioritizes both wellness and sustainable practices. By integrating locally sourced materials and thoughtful architectural elements, it establishes a framework for future projects aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design strategies of the Shala, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which delves deeper into the unique aspects of this meditation cabin.
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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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