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Elevated Wooden Retreat Emphasizing Silent Reflection in Nature

Authors:
Tianshu Liu, Linning Zhang
Elevated Wooden Retreat Emphasizing Silent Reflection in Nature

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, the wooden structure of the cabins creates a private setting for silent meditation, seamlessly integrating with nature while minimizing ecological impact.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design allows natural vegetation to thrive beneath.
02
Large windows frame expansive forest views for enhanced meditation.
03
Closed space prioritizes privacy for focused meditation practices.
04
Utility area includes essential amenities for comfortable stays.
05
Wooden structure reflects sustainable building practices.

Silent Meditation Forest Cabins is a contemporary retreat situated in a forest, designed to foster a sense of calm and reflection. The project features an elevated wooden structure that minimizes its impact on the surrounding environment. The architecture encourages a strong connection between occupants and nature, offering a peaceful space for silent meditation.

Functionality

The design divides the interior into three specific areas that serve different functions. The closed space is the main meditation area, providing users with privacy to focus on their thoughts. This space is created to limit distractions from the outside world, making it easier for individuals to engage in deep reflection and mindfulness practices.

Next to the meditation area is the utility space. This area includes a dry toilet, storage, and a wood stove for warmth. These essential features allow visitors to feel comfortable during their stay, helping them stay connected to the natural surroundings while addressing their basic needs. The utility space enhances the practicality of the cabins, enabling guests to remain for longer periods without losing the meditative atmosphere.

Interaction with Nature

The open area of the cabin connects the indoors with the forest outside. Large windows provide views of the trees and landscape, letting in plenty of natural light. This design encourages occupants to appreciate the beauty of nature around them. The open space not only serves as a place for relaxation but also enhances the overall meditative experience, giving a sense of being part of the natural world.

Materiality and Sustainability

Wood is the primary material used in the construction of the cabins. This choice emphasizes sustainability and fits well with the forest setting. The warm, natural look of wood adds comfort to the interior while promoting an eco-friendly approach. Elevating the structure is an important design choice as well. It allows plants to grow beneath and supports local wildlife, striking a balance between human use and the ecosystem.

The design reflects a careful consideration of both functions and user experience. Each aspect is designed to create a peaceful retreat where meditation can be pursued in the heart of nature.

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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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