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Elevated Meditation Platform Crafted from Straw Bales and Timber in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Madsen Canitz, Nick Glover, Alexander Crosby
Elevated Meditation Platform Crafted from Straw Bales and Timber in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed from straw bales and timber, the elevated meditation platform seamlessly integrates into the forest landscape, offering a space designed for reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using straw bales for thermal insulation, enhancing sustainability.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that promotes natural light and ventilation.
03
Elevated meditation platform creates unobstructed views of the surrounding forest.
04
Utilizes locally sourced timber, reinforcing environmental sensitivity and community support.
05
Features strategically placed openings that frame views and connect users to nature.
The architectural project "A Place Between the Trees" embodies a designed retreat that emphasizes the interaction between architecture and its natural surroundings. Located within a wooded landscape, the project serves primarily as a meditation platform, facilitating experiences that promote mindfulness and reflection. The design aims to foster connections between individuals and nature through tailored spaces that encourage both solitary contemplation and community engagement.

The structure is characterized by its simple, functional design, which is sensitive to the unique ecological characteristics of the site. The cabin employs materials such as wood for its primary structure, straw bales for insulation, metal for supporting elements, and glass for maximizing natural light and integrating views of the forest. Together, these materials dissolve the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, creating a seamless transition that reflects the surrounding landscape.

Innovative Integration of Nature
What distinguishes this project from similar architectural endeavors is its methodology of integrating natural elements into the design process. The architectural design not only focuses on aesthetics but also on sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly materials and passive heating and cooling techniques. The open-plan layout allows for flexible use of space, accommodating activities ranging from solitary meditation to community gatherings.

The strategic placement of window openings is essential for enhancing visual connections with the external scenery, thus fostering an immersive experience in nature. Additional features include an elevated meditation platform that serves as a focal point, inviting occupants to engage deeply with their surroundings. This element underscores the project's commitment to promoting mindfulness, urging visitors to connect both with themselves and the environment around them.

Functional Educational Spaces
The design incorporates educational spaces that align with the project’s mission to enhance environmental awareness. These areas are dedicated to workshops and educational programs that highlight the significance of local ecosystems. The architectural layout encourages exploration, with pathways that direct movement and facilitate interactions, reinforcing the sense of community among users.

Overall, "A Place Between the Trees" exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that prioritizes harmony with nature, sustainability, and community connectivity. Each aspect of the design is a deliberate choice that contributes to the overall function and experience of the retreat.

For further insights into the project, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas presented. Understanding the specific design elements will provide a deeper appreciation of how this project effectively merges architecture and nature in a unique manner.
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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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