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Elevated Timber Structure With Expansive Glass and Integrated Solar Energy For Tranquil Meditation Spaces

Author:
Camilo Cerro
Elevated Timber Structure With Expansive Glass and Integrated Solar Energy For Tranquil Meditation Spaces

Project in-detail

An elevated structure of local timber and expansive glass panels integrates solar energy, creating serene spaces tailored for meditation within the natural landscape of New Zealand.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design utilizes locally sourced timber, minimizing environmental impact.
02
Integrated solar energy system enhances energy efficiency for the cabin.
03
Expansive glass panels promote natural light and connection with the landscape.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and a unique aesthetic finish.
05
Flexible interior spaces cater to both individual and group meditation practices.

The Kiwi Meditation Cabin is a conceptual architectural project designed to serve as a dedicated space for meditation amid New Zealand's natural landscape. This project embodies a commitment to tranquility and sustainability, focusing on fostering mental well-being through its architectural features. It integrates seamlessly with the site's geography, reflecting the surrounding environment while promoting personal reflection and respite.

### Integrative Design Approach

The meditation cabin employs a design that prioritizes harmony between the built environment and nature. The structure features a combination of local timber and expansive glass panels, which not only provide visual continuity with the landscape but also maximize natural light within the interior spaces. The use of these materials contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering mindfulness practices. The exterior form of the cabin is raised on stilts, reducing ground disturbance and providing elevated views of the natural surroundings. This elevating approach further enhances the user's connection to nature, a crucial element of the meditation experience.

### Functional Layout and Spatial Organization

The interior layout is strategically designed to accommodate various meditation practices. The project includes flexible spaces that can cater to both individual solo meditation and group activities. The entryway leads into an open area designed for quiet reflection, while adjacent spaces can be utilized for communal gatherings, workshops, or personal practices. The arrangement allows for easy circulation while encouraging a peaceful flow throughout the cabin.

Unique to this project is the emphasis on prefabricated construction methods, which enhance the efficiency of building assembly and minimize environmental impact. By using locally sourced materials and reducing waste, the design aligns with contemporary architectural demands for sustainability. Additionally, the incorporation of solar panels as part of the building’s energy strategy underscores a forward-thinking approach to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

### Aesthetic Considerations and Materiality

The aesthetic of the Kiwi Meditation Cabin blends natural and modern elements, with a design language that reflects tranquility and simplicity. The warm tones of the local timber are complemented by coral red accents that provide visual interest without overwhelming the serene environment. Interior furnishings are kept minimalistic to enhance comfort while maintaining a focus on functionality essential for meditation.

The thoughtful integration of metallic elements, such as metal gratings for safety, further showcases a modern aesthetic while ensuring durability and resilience against the elements. The use of bamboo in specific design components also highlights eco-conscious material choices, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainable practices.

Explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details of the Kiwi Meditation Cabin for a thorough understanding of its innovative approach to meditation space design. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into how the project merges architecture with the principles of mindfulness and sustainability.

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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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