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Elevated Retreat with Charred Timber and Thatch Roof for Meditation

Author:
Karol Kundrák
Elevated Retreat with Charred Timber and Thatch Roof for Meditation
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Constructed with charred timber and a thatched roof, the elevated cabin offers a serene setting for meditation, merging traditional Maori architectural elements with modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with charred timber for durability and aesthetics.
02
Features a traditional thatched roof for effective water drainage.
03
Elevated structure enhances views and connection to nature.
04
Incorporates folding shades for privacy and light control.
05
Designed to reflect Maori cultural elements in a modern context.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin offers a peaceful space designed for meditation and reflection. Located within a beautiful landscape, it aims to provide a retreat from the stresses of everyday life. Drawing inspiration from traditional Maori houses, the cabin’s design incorporates cultural elements that create a calming atmosphere. The overall concept focuses on connecting users with both themselves and their environment.

Structural Form

The cabin features an elevated structure that enhances views of the surrounding area. This height contributes to a sense of openness and creates a space that feels tranquil. A skylight is included in the design, allowing natural light to fill the room, which adds to the peaceful experience. Large windows connect the inside of the cabin with the outside world, inviting the beauty of nature into the space.

Material Considerations

Material choices prioritize sustainability while maintaining an appealing look. Wood is the main material used in the structure, valued for its easy availability and low environmental impact. The exterior is covered with charred timber planks that resist moisture and fit well with the natural surroundings. This choice reflects a blend of traditional and modern building practices.

Interior Atmosphere

Inside, the cabin walls are finished with a lighter type of wood, which helps create a spacious and calming environment. This wood not only adds to the serene atmosphere but also improves the sound quality within the cabin. The roof uses straw thatch, a nod to Maori architecture, which effectively directs water away from the building. Such choices respect cultural heritage while providing practical solutions for climate challenges.

Functional Design Features

The cabin also includes a system of folding shades that allow for privacy when needed. Users can control the amount of light that enters the space, balancing the desire for openness with the need for solitude. This thoughtful design makes the cabin adaptable to different situations, ensuring it serves its purpose well as a sanctuary for meditation.

The overall design blends traditional forms with contemporary needs. A notable detail is the gently sloping roof, which draws the eye upward and creates a connection to the sky. This architectural choice reflects the cabin’s intention as a place for mindfulness and self-reflection, encouraging a deep sense of calm and awareness.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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