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Elevated Timber Cabins Featuring Photovoltaic Panels for Mindful Retreats

Author:
Hugo fernando Gómez saldaña
Elevated Timber Cabins Featuring Photovoltaic Panels for Mindful Retreats

Project in-detail

Elevated on slender timber columns, the cabins integrate large glass panels and photovoltaic technology, creating a sustainable environment for meditation and personal reflection in a tranquil natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes site disruption and enhances natural vegetation growth.
02
Large glass openings maximize daylight while providing expansive views of the landscape.
03
Integrated graywater system promotes sustainable water management and ecological balance.
04
Timber columns support a lightweight construction, reducing overall material usage.
05
The use of charred wood shingles enhances durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
The Retreat is a meditation cabin project located in Vale de Moses, designed to promote mindfulness and self-reflection through an architectural intervention that harmonizes with the natural landscape. This project serves as a tranquil retreat, providing individuals a space for meditation and personal reflection away from the distractions of modern life. The design focuses on simplicity, sustainability, and ecological sensitivity, reflecting a commitment to creating a structure that is both functional and environmentally integrated.

The architectural approach of The Retreat emphasizes a seamless connection to the surrounding environment. Each cabin is elevated on slender wooden columns, which minimizes the impact on the terrain and preserves natural vegetation. This design technique not only reduces soil erosion but also facilitates the continuous growth of flora beneath the cabins. The cabins are oriented to optimize views and natural light while protecting occupants from harsh weather conditions.

The materiality of The Retreat plays a crucial role in its overall aesthetic and sustainability. The primary materials used include wood, concrete, glass, rubber, and photovoltaic panels. Wood is extensively utilized for structural elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Concrete forms the foundation, providing stability and durability. Large glass windows serve to enhance connectivity with the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces and offering occupants panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of rubber in the acoustic design enhances the peaceful ambiance, essential for a meditation environment. Photovoltaic panels are integrated into the design to promote renewable energy use, ensuring a lower environmental impact.

Sustainability is a central theme in the design of The Retreat. The project implements a gravity-fed gray water system, responsibly managing water resources while maintaining the ecological balance of the site. This thoughtful integration of sustainable practices demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The uniqueness of The Retreat lies in its adaptive use of the landscape and emphasis on user experience. The architectural design respects the site’s topography, creating a series of interconnected cabins that allow for communal interaction while providing individual spaces for meditation. The straightforward geometry reflects a modern aesthetic that complements its natural setting. Each cabin is designed to facilitate a diverse range of mindfulness activities while ensuring minimal distraction from nature.

In conclusion, The Retreat manifests a coherent architectural vision that prioritizes harmony with the environment, mindful design, and sustainable living. For those interested in detailed architectural insights, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas, exploration of the project presentation is highly encouraged.
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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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