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Elevated Meditation Retreat Crafted From Natural Wood and Tent Fabric Overlooking Serene Forest Views

Author:
Cosmin Stefan
Elevated Meditation Retreat Crafted From Natural Wood and Tent Fabric Overlooking Serene Forest Views

Project in-detail

Constructed with sustainably sourced wood and enveloped in flexible tent fabric, this elevated retreat offers panoramic forest views and dedicated spaces for meditation, encouraging a harmonious connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat features a bent A-frame design that enhances the structural integrity while promoting natural light influx.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout, providing both sustainability and thermal efficiency.
03
A flexible tent fabric serves as an adaptable solution for outdoor meditation spaces, allowing for seasonal use.
04
The elevated living platform minimizes site disturbance and offers unobstructed views of the surrounding forest.
05
Charred wooden shingles are incorporated, enhancing weather resistance while adding a unique aesthetic to the exterior.
The project "In Between" represents a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between architecture and nature, offering a serene and contemplative retreat designed explicitly for meditation. Located within a tranquil forest setting, the architecture of this project emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and a deep connection with the surrounding environment. The design relies on an understanding of how built spaces can foster spiritual experiences while providing functional areas for individual and communal reflection.

The primary function of "In Between" is to serve as a retreat that encourages meditation, introspection, and the practice of mindfulness. This retreat allows its users to step away from the rigors of daily life and immerse themselves in an environment conducive to relaxation and self-discovery. The cabin itself is organized into various spaces that cater to different activities, including meditation areas, a bedroom, a study or dining space, and a kitchenette. This strategic arrangement demonstrates a clear intention to facilitate diverse yet cohesive experiences, allowing users to find both solitude and moments of communal engagement.

Key elements of the design are notable for how they enhance the project’s overall intention. The cabin is characterized by its distinct triangular form, reminiscent of traditional A-frame structures, which speaks to both familiarity and modernity. This shape not only contributes to the visual appeal of the architecture but also serves a functional purpose by creating a spacious interior that encourages verticality and the feeling of openness. Additionally, the raised living platform elevates the structure above the forest floor, providing stunning views while minimizing environmental impact. This elevation invites users to connect with nature rather than feeling enclosed or distanced from it.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the architecture of "In Between." The predominant use of wood creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with the cabin's surrounding forest. This choice also symbolizes a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the materials used support ecological balance. Large glass facades are strategically integrated into the design, allowing natural light to flood the interior and offering unobstructed views of the forest. This emphasis on transparency fosters a continuous dialogue between the interior spaces and the natural world outside. Auxiliary structures, such as the meditation deck, utilize tent fabric to create a flexible outdoor extension, which can adapt to varying seasonal conditions while maintaining a visual and physical connection to the landscape.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The relationship between the indoor spaces and their outdoor counterparts is a hallmark of the architectural vision, blending elements that encourage both internal contemplation and external engagement. The vertical lines of the structure symbolically heighten the experience of ascension, inviting users to transcend everyday thoughts during their meditation practices. The careful juxtaposition of different materials—wood for warmth, glass for light, and fabric for flexibility—demonstrates an acute awareness of how texture and form can influence perception and feeling within the built environment.

Overall, "In Between" exemplifies thoughtful architectural design that goes beyond its physical structure. It becomes a vessel for personal and spiritual exploration, harmonizing with the natural surroundings while providing a functional space for meditation and reflection. The project’s attention to detail, from its layout to its materiality, showcases a commitment to creating environments that nurture the human spirit. For readers interested in delving deeper into this architectural project, exploring its architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide comprehensive insights into the innovative ideas that shaped its creation. The design of "In Between" not only invites individuals to experience peace within its walls but also encourages them to engage fully with the layered environments outside.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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