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Elevated Retreat with Glazed Façade and Hemp Insulation

Authors:
Sebastiaan Van oosterom, Martin Van der vijver, Baktash Ibrahimi
Elevated Retreat with Glazed Façade and Hemp Insulation

Project in-detail

Constructed with hemp insulation and a large glazed façade, the cabin provides an elevated retreat that fosters a deep connection to Latvia's natural landscape, ensuring a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin’s design incorporates a glazed façade for panoramic landscape views.
02
Hemp insulation is utilized for enhanced environmental efficiency.
03
An elevated structure minimizes ecological disruption to the site.
04
Modules are designed for flexible use, catering to various activities.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable living practices.

The Silent Meditation Cabin is located in Latvia, a country known for its natural beauty and rich ecosystems. It serves as a retreat for individuals seeking peace and a deeper connection with their surroundings. The design reflects a commitment to simplicity and harmony, guided by the principle of "More - by - less."

Architecture Concept

The design focuses on ecotourism while fostering a relationship between people and nature. It features a modular layout that meets various user needs. Key areas include a meditation module for reflection, a comfort module for resting, and a facilities module that provides essential services. This thoughtful arrangement allows for a variety of activities, all while maintaining a cohesive visual identity.

Materials and Construction

The cabin utilizes locally sourced materials to support its ecological focus. Wood is used for its warmth and structural reliability. Hemp insulation enhances energy efficiency, while clay finishes contribute to a natural and inviting atmosphere. These materials respect the local environment and help the building operate sustainably.

Spatial Organization

The cabin's configuration includes elevated sections, which help minimize impact on the landscape. Large glazed facades enable natural light to fill the interior spaces. This design creates a serene atmosphere for meditation and relaxation. Open lines of sight connect the different modules, supporting both privacy and collaboration, which are essential for a meaningful retreat experience.

Design Details

Attention to detail is evident in features like the skylight in the sleeping area, which allows occupants to gaze at the night sky. A rainwater harvesting system helps to reinforce self-sufficiency, making the cabin a sustainable space. Overall, the design emphasizes a balance between personal reflection and an appreciation of the natural world.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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