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Elevated Retreats Crafted from Local Wood and Steel Supports Uniting Nature and Mindfulness

Authors:
Yoichiro Hayashi, Daniela Mora nieto, Krit Soomelux
Elevated Retreats Crafted from Local Wood and Steel Supports Uniting Nature and Mindfulness

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape on slender steel supports, the meditation cabins seamlessly integrate local wood and angular designs to create serene spaces that invite deep reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins are elevated by slender steel supports, creating a light and airy appearance while minimizing ground disruption.
02
Locally sourced wood is used extensively, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration.
03
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views, fostering a seamless connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding landscape.
04
The triangular shape of the cabins draws inspiration from traditional shelter forms, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
05
Walkways made from light steel connect the cabins, promoting exploration while maintaining a minimal visual footprint.
The Vale de Moisés Meditation Cabins exemplify a thoughtful approach to architecture that fosters a connection with nature and supports the practice of mindfulness. Nestled in a serene landscape, this project integrates seamlessly into its surroundings, serving as a retreat for individuals seeking solitude and reflection. The architectural design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, allowing the cabins to function as peaceful sanctuaries where guests can engage in meditation and personal growth.

The central premise of the project hinges on the concept of elevating the user experience by creating spaces that encourage deep engagement with the natural environment. Each cabin is designed to rise above the terrain, offering tranquil views and a unique perspective of the surroundings. This elevation not only enhances the visual experience but also reinforces the metaphorical ascent into a space of mental clarity and introspection. By implementing a minimalist design language, the cabins communicate a respect for their environment while providing essential comforts.

Architecturally, the cabins feature an innovative combination of materials that reflect both sustainability and aesthetic sensitivity. The primary construction material is locally sourced wood, which establishes a warm and inviting atmosphere while minimizing the environmental impact associated with transportation. This choice aligns with a contemporary emphasis on eco-friendly practices that prioritize natural resources and harmony with the ecosystem. The structural integrity of each cabin is ensured through the use of slender steel pillars, which provide support while allowing the design to maintain an airy feel. This combination of wood and steel not only contributes to the visual lightness of the cabins but also creates a dialogue between the organic and the industrial.

In terms of layout, each cabin is intuitively designed to maximize peacefulness and usability. The interior space features a dedicated area for meditation, where the simplicity of the design promotes tranquility. By focusing on essential elements and reducing clutter, the cabins embody the essence of mindfulness practice. Large glass panels seamlessly integrate the indoors with the outdoors, allowing ample natural light to fill the space while connecting guests with their surroundings. This relationship between the interior environment and the natural landscape encourages an immersive experience that is both calming and restorative.

The connectivity between the cabins is also a vital aspect of the design, facilitated by lightweight steel bridges. These pathways not only provide practical access but also enhance the overall aesthetic cohesion of the project. By allowing guests to navigate between the cabins without disrupting the landscape, the design fosters exploration and camaraderie while maintaining individual privacy. This balance is crucial in a retreat setting, where solitude and community coexist harmoniously.

Unique design strategies in the Vale de Moisés Meditation Cabins reflect a deeper understanding of the needs of individuals seeking refuge in nature. The architects prioritize user experience without compromising the integrity of the environment. By crafting a project that embodies sustainability and mindful engagement, the design appeals to those looking for both physical and emotional rejuvenation.

The Vale de Moisés Meditation Cabins stand as a compelling example of architecture that is at once functional and reflective of its context. The project highlights how thoughtful design can enhance the practice of meditation and promote well-being through a direct connection to nature. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, allowing them to examine architectural plans, sections, and designs that provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas underpinning this enriching retreat.
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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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