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Elevated Cabin Constructed with Locally Sourced Timber and Integrated Sensory Garden

Authors:
Samuel Kumar, James Jones
Elevated Cabin Constructed with Locally Sourced Timber and Integrated Sensory Garden

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced timber and featuring an integrated sensory garden, the elevated meditation cabin enhances wellness practices through thoughtful design that harmonizes with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced air-dried timber for enhanced environmental sustainability.
02
Elevated design on stilts minimizes ecological impact and supports natural drainage.
03
Features a sensory garden beneath, integrating therapeutic plants with architecture.
04
Incorporates photovoltaic solar panels for energy self-sufficiency with minimal footprint.
05
Timber cladding allows natural light flow while maintaining privacy for users.
The architectural project "Reconnecting the Link" is designed as a meditation cabin aimed at facilitating wellness and mental well-being. This structure is situated within a natural landscape, functioning as a space for meditation, therapeutic treatments, and sensory engagement with nature. The project’s emphasis on sustainable design practices and its unique integration with the environment lend it considerable relevance in contemporary architecture.

Sustainable Structure and Materiality

"Reconnecting the Link" prioritizes sustainability through its selection of materials and methods of construction. The cabin primarily uses locally sourced, air-dried timber, which minimizes transportation emissions and supports local economies. This choice not only aligns with eco-friendly principles but also enhances the structure's aesthetic, providing warmth and a natural quality to the interior and exterior.

The use of structural steel is another distinctive feature of the design, allowing for lightweight construction that supports easy assembly by hand. This method aligns with the project's sustainable ethos, facilitating potential disassembly for reuse or relocation. The incorporation of timber cladding on the exterior serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, offering airflow and light while ensuring occupant privacy.

A notable characteristic of the project involves the photovoltaic solar panels installed on the roof. With a minimum energy output of 1,700 kWh annually, these panels contribute to the cabin's energy self-sufficiency, reinforcing the commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

Integration of Nature and User Experience

The spatial organization of "Reconnecting the Link" highlights the harmony between the structure and its environment. The cabin is elevated on stilts, allowing natural processes, such as water drainage, to occur beneath it, thereby reducing its ecological footprint. This elevation creates a seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor settings.

Inside, the treatment areas are distinctly defined yet flexible enough to accommodate various wellness practices. The project includes a semi-outdoor balcony area designed for direct engagement with sunlight and fresh air, enhancing the meditative experience. Below the cabin, a sensory garden featuring therapeutic plants like lavender and aloe vera invites users to immerse themselves in nature, enriching their experience and enhancing the project's purpose.

The dynamic relationship between the structure and surrounding flora is emphasized through the design, which allows plants to grow and intertwine with the timber cladding. This not only blurs the line between architecture and landscape but also enhances the sensory experience for users over time.

Design Adaptability and Longevity

"Reconnecting the Link" showcases an advanced approach to adaptability and longevity in architectural design. The materials selected not only create a unified aesthetic but also ensure that the structure can be modified as needs evolve. The focus on easy disassembly allows for the potential reconfiguration or replacement of components without significant waste or resource depletion.

This project embodies a thoughtful response to contemporary needs for wellness and sustainability, making it relevant to current architectural dialogues. The integration of wellness practices with responsible design practices positions this cabin as a noteworthy example of modern architecture.

To gain a deeper understanding of "Reconnecting the Link," consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs. By reviewing these elements, you can delve further into the architectural ideas that define this innovative project.
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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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