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Elevated Meditation Cabin with Glass and Linen Inscriptions

Authors:
Daniele Morelli, Margherita Bulgarelli, Chiara Ganzerla
Elevated Meditation Cabin with Glass and Linen Inscriptions

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the meditation cabin integrates glass and linen elements to create a serene space for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design allows for unfiltered interaction with nature.
02
Integration of Maori cultural elements into contemporary forms.
03
Use of glass frames to maximize natural light and views.
04
Tailored spaces for meditation enhance sensory experiences.
05
Materials selected for durability and minimal environmental impact.

The meditation cabin is designed to be a calm retreat located within a natural landscape. It serves as a space for individuals searching for quiet moments of reflection. The structure elevates the user experience by creating a feeling of floating between the earth and the sky, merging indoor and outdoor environments. The design concept emphasizes openness, allowing for a dynamic relationship with the surrounding nature.

Conceptual Framework

At the core of the design is a vertical "axis-mundi," representing balance between individuals and the natural world. The shape of the cabin encourages a connection that goes beyond traditional boundaries. Influences from Maori culture are evident, presented in a way that respects its origins while adapting to contemporary needs. Geometric forms reflect purity and simplicity, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Activities and User Experience

The cabin facilitates various activities, including meditation with natural incense and the use of floral essences. These experiences are carefully woven into the design to enhance the sense of tranquility. The space is also designed for evening use, where candlelight can create a warm and calming environment. Users are encouraged to fully engage with their surroundings in a way that fosters mindfulness and reflection.

Materiality and Construction

Construction of the cabin involves a carefully chosen set of materials. Linen waterproof fabric provides durability and weather resistance. Wooden beams and curbs connect the structure to its environment, while glass frames allow for clear views of the landscape. Steel corner profiles add strength, and structural multilayer panels improve thermal insulation, contributing to energy efficiency. This choice of materials supports the design, reinforcing the bond between the cabin and the natural world.

Large windows are a notable feature, allowing ample natural light to fill the interior and create a sense of openness. As the light shifts throughout the day, it changes the mood within the cabin, making the space feel alive.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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