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Elevated Sanctuary With Natural Brown Wood and Glass Envelopes

Author:
Ahmed Elmaghraby
Elevated Sanctuary With Natural Brown Wood and Glass Envelopes

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, the structure integrates natural brown wood and glass envelopes to create a serene space for meditation and introspection, fostering a deep connection with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated to enhance panoramic views of the forest.
02
Utilizes local materials to minimize environmental impact.
03
Incorporates passive ventilation for natural airflow.
04
Nest-like shape fosters a sense of safety and protection.
05
Designed to merge seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

The Meditation Nest is located in the wild forests of New Zealand and serves as a space for introspection and meditation. The design takes inspiration from the shape and function of a bird nest, creating an environment that fosters a connection between users and the surrounding nature. It focuses on safety and immersion, enveloping individuals in a nurturing space that encourages personal growth and self-discovery.

Concept and Design Intent

The architecture aims to provide an elevated sanctuary. The structure has a nest-like form, offering protection while enhancing the user experience through panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This elevation allows occupants to feel a part of the natural environment, deepening their engagement with the forests.



Environmental Integration

The design shows careful consideration for its environmental impact. By prioritizing an elevated structure, The Meditation Nest reduces the excavation needed for construction. This approach highlights a commitment to protecting the ecological integrity of the site. Building with respect for the land allows the structure to coexist with its surroundings.



Natural Ventilation and Airflow

Innovative strategies for natural ventilation are a key aspect of the design. Gaps between the wooden slab and glass envelope promote cool airflow without the need for mechanical systems. Openings in the roof allow hot air to escape, maintaining a fresh air supply within the space. This attention to natural ventilation improves comfort while aligning the internal environment with the external climate.



Materials and Aesthetic Integration

Material choices play an important role in this design, highlighting the use of local resources that reflect the nearby environment. Specific materials are not extensively detailed, but the emphasis on locally sourced elements emphasizes sustainability. The overall aesthetic is simple and connects with the forms in nature, integrating well with the forest landscape.



Design features create a calm atmosphere, enhanced by undulating lines that guide the eye toward expansive views. An opening in the roof invites natural light into the space, fostering a serene ambiance that encourages quiet reflection and engagement with the surroundings.

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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
competition now

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