Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Dynamic Privacy Shelters Constructed with Polymer Materials and Flexible Modules for Urban Meditation

Author:
Gonzalo Chirinos
Dynamic Privacy Shelters Constructed with Polymer Materials and Flexible Modules for Urban Meditation

Project in-detail

Incorporating polymer dispersed liquid-crystal technology and modular elements, the design creates intimate meditation pods that adapt to urban environments, fostering moments of tranquility amidst the city's hustle.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates polymer dispersed liquid-crystal technology for adjustable privacy.
02
Constructed using SUTURDROTH, a sustainable high-density composite material.
03
Modular design allows for flexible configurations in various urban contexts.
04
Inspired by the lotus flower, symbolizing tranquility and enlightenment.
05
Integrates customizable soundscapes to enhance the meditation experience.

The Meisō Mayu project presents a contemporary approach to urban architecture, specifically designed to create spaces for meditation within densely populated environments. This project utilizes a compact footprint to accommodate the increasing need for tranquil spaces in cities, promoting mindfulness and introspective experiences. The design is inspired by the lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment, which aligns with the project’s function as a sanctuary for meditation.

The structure is configured to facilitate an immersive meditation experience, with architectural elements that engage users in a personal journey of reflection. Designed to provide temporary refuge for individuals, the architecture accommodates a minimalistic yet functional space that encourages users to disconnect from their surroundings and focus inward.

Innovative design approaches set Meisō Mayu apart. The use of Polymer Dispersed Liquid-Crystal (PDLC) technology in the windows permits dynamic privacy control, allowing users to select their desired level of openness to the outside world. This adaptable feature enhances the meditative atmosphere, responding to varying user needs and urban dynamics. The choice of SUTURDROTH, a high-density composite material, underscores a commitment to sustainability and durability, ensuring longevity while minimizing environmental impact. The modular design allows for different configurations, promoting versatility in placement across various urban settings.

Additionally, the structure incorporates interactive elements, enabling users to customize soundscapes and lighting, which further personalizes the meditation experience. Such features reflect a design ethos that prioritizes user engagement, elevating the architectural experience beyond mere structure to a holistic environment fostering mental well-being.

The careful consideration of spatial arrangements, material selection, and technological integration culminates in a unique architectural solution tailored for urban living. The project embodies a progressive interpretation of architecture that respects cultural symbolism while enhancing community health. The design merges functionality with symbolic significance, presenting a noteworthy contribution to urban architectural discourse.

For those interested in exploring more about this project, review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain further insights into the innovative ideas and thoughtful execution that characterize Meisō Mayu.

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