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Elevated Meditation Space Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Hannah Hryniewicki, Nathan Leigh, Gianna Prather
Elevated Meditation Space Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the meditation cabin harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing a dedicated space for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural stability and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing interior space while blending with the landscape.
04
Includes an accessible ramp that ensures ease of movement for all users.
05
Integrates a rooftop terrace for outdoor meditation and panoramic views of nature.
The project under analysis is a meditation cabin designed to offer an intimate, serene environment for users seeking calm and reflection. This architectural design integrates thoughtfully with its natural surroundings, emphasizing a respectful interaction with the existing landscape. The project serves as both a refuge for individual meditative practices and a gathering space for group activities. The combination of functional requirements and environmental harmony is central to its purpose, creating a dedicated area for mindfulness within a carefully preserved setting.

Design Integration with Natural Environment

A unique aspect of this project is its integration with the site’s topography. The building features a sloped roof that doubles as usable space, providing an additional area for yoga or meditation, which is uncommon in traditional cabin designs. The approach of creating a circulation path around the structure allows visitors to engage with their environment, facilitating a seamless transition between the constructed space and the natural world. This blend of architecture and site enhances the user experience by offering varied perspectives of the landscape throughout the journey to and from the cabin.

Structural and Material Choices

The architectural plans prioritize materiality, using wood, concrete, and metal elements in a way that reinforces both aesthetic value and structural integrity. The interior walls are finished with plywood, contributing to a warm atmosphere conducive to meditation, while the exterior timber blends naturally with the surrounding trees. The use of concrete for the foundation ensures stability, and strategically placed metal slats provide a visual connection to the outdoors without compromising privacy. The combination of these materials exemplifies a balanced approach, highlighting the project’s intention to coexist harmoniously with nature.

In summary, the meditation cabin presents an architectural design focused on creating a tranquil space through careful consideration of site, material usage, and structural integration. The project's unique features and thoughtful design outcomes encourage further exploration of architectural plans, sections, and overall concepts. Readers are invited to review the project presentation for deeper insights into its design and architectural ideas.
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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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