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Elevated Tranquility with Translucent Glass and Metallic Structure

Authors:
Citiea Bianca, Alexandru-ionut Marinescu
Elevated Tranquility with Translucent Glass and Metallic Structure
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Elevated above the urban landscape, the cabins utilize translucent glass and a lightweight metallic structure to create a serene environment for meditation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure enhances urban separation and tranquility.
02
Translucent glass creates dynamic light patterns throughout the interior.
03
Lightweight metallic frame allows for non-invasive integration into the city.
04
Slow, winding path encourages an engaging approach to meditation.
05
Central zenithal light fosters a contemplative atmosphere within the space.

The Tokyo Urban Meditation Cabins stand as a thoughtful solution for those seeking peace in the bustling city. Positioned above street level, these cabins create a refuge for meditation and reflection. They offer users a chance to step away from the noise of urban life. The design centers around a cube shape that not only provides structural clarity but also enhances the visual language of the skyline.

Form and Structure

The cube is the main feature of the design, lifted above the city’s hustle. This height offers a sense of separation from the busy streets below and invites users to experience a different perspective. Surrounding the structure, a slow, winding path allows users to gradually approach the meditation space. This thoughtful circulation creates an engaging journey that makes the arrival a significant part of the experience.

Materiality and Light

Translucent glass plays an important role in the design, allowing light to weave through the cabins. The use of glass offers a gentle connection between the interior and exterior, creating an atmosphere rich in natural illumination. Inside, the shifting patterns of light help foster a meditative environment, making the space feel alive. The design ensures that daylight enhances the experience, inviting users to engage with their surroundings while staying focused on their practice.

Integration and Impact

The structure is built using a lightweight metallic frame, which allows it to connect without imposing on the existing urban fabric. This choice underscores the aim of creating a calm oasis without disrupting the flow of the city. People can pass beneath the cabins, experiencing the urban landscape while the occupants find tranquillity above.

Inside the meditation cabins, the design prioritizes intimacy and comfort. A central light source bathes the interior, creating layered spaces that encourage reflection and serenity. This particular detail ensures that the cabins function well as retreats, drawing users into a peaceful state while distinguishing them from the vibrant life of the city below.

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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

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