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Elevated Natural Retreat Crafted from Radiata Pine with Flexible Polyester Enclosures

Authors:
Alejandro Ricote, Diego Sierra, Miriam Engelmayer, Alejandro Cárdenas
Elevated Natural Retreat Crafted from Radiata Pine with Flexible Polyester Enclosures

Project in-detail

Crafted with radiant timber and adaptable fabric enclosures, the design creates an immersive meditation space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin is designed with flexible polyester fabric enclosures that allow users to adjust their connection to nature.
02
Radiata pine is utilized for structural elements, promoting sustainability and local material use.
03
A central altar serves as a focal point for communal meditation, enhancing the shared experience.
04
The design incorporates multiple platforms, catering to both individual and group meditation sessions.
05
Elevated on concrete pilings, the cabin minimizes environmental impact and blends harmoniously with the landscape.
The Fohat Meditation Cabin represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture designed to foster connection, reflection, and tranquility within a natural setting. Situated approximately 300 meters from the Earth Energies Sanctuary, the project serves as a retreat for meditation and personal reflection, aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The cabin is built on an axis that aligns with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the experience of users who seek to engage with nature as part of their meditation practice.

The design embodies a cohesive blend of geometry and the organic characteristics of the environment, with an emphasis on creating spaces that support both communal and individual experiences. At its core, the cabin is structured around five distinct platforms, which facilitate a variety of activities while allowing for introspection. Central to the design is an altar space that captures natural light, creating a focal point for gathering and meditation. This intentional layout not only promotes interaction among users but also respects the need for personal solitude, striking a balance that is essential for meditation practices.

Material selection is vital to the project’s overall expression and functionality. The primary use of Radiata Pine adds a warm, organic feel to the structure while emphasizing sustainability. In a thoughtful approach to environmental harmony, the cabin incorporates recycled materials, such as polyester fabric used for adjustable coverings, allowing users to control their sensory interaction with the outdoor environment. Steel elements provide structural support, while concrete pilings elevate the cabin and minimize land disturbance, enhancing its ecological footprint.

The cabin's unique design approaches extend beyond its materials and spatial organization. The integration of full-height glazed elements offers unobstructed views of the surrounding bush landscape, effectively dissolving the physical barriers between interior and exterior spaces. This connection to nature is amplified through the innovative use of light and shadow, as strategically placed skylights flood the cabin with natural illumination, creating an atmospheric interior that varies throughout the day. Such design considerations enhance the emotional experience of the space, as users are invited to engage with both the physical architecture and the natural world around them.

In addition to the thoughtful layout and material choices, the project reflects a broader philosophical stance on the purpose of such spaces in our fast-paced, modern lives. The Fohat Meditation Cabin serves not only as a physical structure but also as an embodiment of the principles of mindfulness and energy. By situating the cabin within the context of its environment and responding to the specific needs of meditation practices, the design offers a comprehensive response to contemporary quests for serenity amidst chaos.

This architectural project invites observers and users to delve deeper into its design philosophy and practices. For those interested in architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, exploring these elements can provide additional insights into how the Fohat Meditation Cabin was conceived and executed. The cabin stands as a comprehensive model for future architecture that seeks to harmonize human experiences with the natural world, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful design in promoting well-being and mindfulness. Visitors and enthusiasts are encouraged to discover more about this intriguing project to appreciate its full narrative and aesthetic intentions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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