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Elevated Cubic Retreat Crafted from Translucent Glass and Steel in an Urban Landscape

Authors:
Citiea Bianca, Alexandru-Ionut Marinescu
Elevated Cubic Retreat Crafted from Translucent Glass and Steel in an Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from translucent glass and supported by a robust steel frame, this elevated cubic structure offers a serene space for meditation amidst the urban environment of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design above street level to create separation from urban noise.
02
Translucent glass façade filters light while ensuring privacy.
03
Steel framework supports an open-plan interior for flexibility.
04
Integrated natural elements surround the cabin to enhance tranquility.
05
Cubic form promotes a dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The "Tokyo Urban Meditation Cabins" represent a thoughtful architectural response to the realities of urban living in Tokyo, Japan. This project focuses on creating intimate spaces for meditation that allow individuals to disconnect from the frenetic pace of city life. Positioned above street level, the cabins are sculpted with a contemporary cube design that incorporates transparency and natural light to develop a serene environment conducive to mindfulness.

The project embodies the intersection of architecture and psychological wellness, with a functional focus on providing users with a quiet retreat for reflection and meditation. The cabins facilitate an escape from the hustle outside, emphasizing the need for spaces that promote mental well-being in increasingly dense urban settings.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of the design is its emphasis on verticality and elevation. The cabins rise above the urban landscape, offering users both physical and psychological separation from the chaos of daily life. This elevation encourages a gradual transition into tranquility, creating a pathway that prepares users for entry into meditative space.

Another key aspect is the use of materials that foster interaction with the surrounding environment. The facade, primarily composed of translucent glass, allows natural light to flood the interior while maintaining an element of privacy. This careful material choice enhances the user experience, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor surroundings. The structural integrity provided by the metal framework offers a durable yet minimalist aesthetic that aligns with the project's conceptual intentions.

A focus on nature integration is also evident. The landscape surrounding the cabins is designed to provide a calm setting that encourages contemplation. This design strategy reflects a cohesive approach to architecture that harmonizes built structures with natural elements.

Architectural Details

Key architectural details further enhance the project’s purpose. The open-plan interior maximizes natural light, resulting in a calming ambiance that is essential for meditation. The design's spatial organization promotes fluid movements within the cabins, allowing users to engage with the environment in a manner that facilitates relaxation.

In addition to the spatial arrangement, thoughtful attention is given to the structural elements, particularly the vertical support systems that allow for an unobstructed interior. This design decision not only showcases the project's architectural finesse but also underlines functional consideration.

For a comprehensive understanding of the "Tokyo Urban Meditation Cabins," interested readers are encouraged to examine the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illuminate the unique architectural ideas employed throughout the project. Delving into these elements will provide greater insights into the innovative approaches that define this project and its contributions to contemporary architecture.
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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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