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Earthy Retreat Crafted with Thermal Mass and Green Roof

Authors:
Sohan Tari, Minna Bansal
Earthy Retreat Crafted with Thermal Mass and Green Roof

Project in-detail

Crafted with a green roof and thermal mass elements, the design provides a sustainable retreat that fosters mindfulness and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a green roof that promotes biodiversity and insulation.
02
Utilizes thermal mass from earth materials for efficient temperature regulation.
03
Incorporates a large glass conservatory for seamless indoor-outdoor interaction.
04
Features earthen fireplace and wood stove for sustainable heating solutions.
05
Designed as a versatile space for yoga, meditation, and community engagement.
The Karma Yoga Cabin is an architectural project designed to serve as a retreat for mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation. Located in a forested area, the cabin emphasizes a strong connection to nature, promoting serenity and self-awareness. The structure's design intricately balances functionality and environmental sustainability, utilizing local materials to create a harmonized living space that reflects its surroundings.

Integration with Nature
A distinctive feature of the Karma Yoga Cabin is its integration with the natural environment. The use of timber logs as a primary construction material allows the cabin to blend seamlessly into the forest landscape. The steeply pitched roof not only follows traditional Latvian architectural forms but also facilitates rainwater drainage and supports a green roof system. This living roof contributes to local biodiversity while enhancing thermal performance. The large glass conservatory, which forms the cabin's façade, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, fostering a visually immersive experience.

Sustainable Design Approach
The project's design emphasizes sustainability through careful material selection and energy-efficient strategies. The cabin employs thermal mass principles with earth elements incorporated into foundational and heating systems. An earthen fireplace and wood-fired cook stove ensure energy efficiency while reducing reliance on external heating sources. The design also incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to promote self-sufficiency. This approach minimizes the ecological footprint of the cabin while encouraging users to engage with environmental stewardship.

Multi-functional Spaces
Interior spaces of the Karma Yoga Cabin are thoughtfully designed to serve various functions. The layout includes a cozy meditation nook, areas for physical practice, and a kitchen for food preparation. Outdoor platforms extend from the cabin to facilitate activities in a natural setting. A trail for walking meditation invites users to experience the surrounding forest, further deepening their engagement with nature. The overall configuration ensures flexibility, allowing the cabin to adapt to different needs and activities of its users.

The Karma Yoga Cabin exemplifies a modern architectural approach rooted in sustainability and mindfulness. Its unique design choices, including material use, structural forms, and adaptive spaces, distinguish it from conventional cabins. For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, explore the complete project presentation to gain deeper insights into its innovative architectural ideas.
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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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