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Embodying Healing Through Granite and Water Elements in a Retreat Cabin

Authors:
Alex Kolar, Kaizer Hud
Embodying Healing Through Granite and Water Elements in a Retreat Cabin

Project in-detail

With granite formations serving as both structural elements and sources of healing, the cabin integrates fire, water, and rest to create a tranquil retreat that fosters connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features three large granite rocks, each symbolizing healing through fire, water, and rest.
02
The design encourages mindfulness through everyday activities like cooking and bathing.
03
Granite is used not just structurally, but also for its ability to retain heat after the fire is extinguished.
04
The integration of water elements enhances the therapeutic atmosphere of the cabin.
05
Natural textures and forms are emphasized, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor environments.

The Three Healing Earths is a cabin designed to connect people with the natural world. Located among rocky surroundings, the cabin serves as a place for both rest and reflection. The design focuses on three main elements: fire, water, and earth, each represented by significant granite formations. This project encourages occupants to engage with their environment in a meaningful way.

Design Elements

The cabin's layout centers on three large granite rocks, each chosen for its association with healing. One rock serves as a fire hearth, providing warmth and comfort. It creates a gathering spot for people to come together. This design choice makes the act of warming by the fire a communal experience, enhancing the connection among occupants.

Resting Space

Another rock supports a soft mattress, which contrasts nicely with the rough texture of the stone. This element invites rest in a natural setting. Users can find relaxation on the rock while contemplating their surroundings. The design highlights the balance between nature's rawness and the comfort that a restful space can provide.

Water Feature

The third granite rock includes a water element, allowing for cleansing and rejuvenating activities. This feature serves practical needs and supports well-being. The presence of running water brings a calming quality to the space, reinforcing the healing atmosphere that the cabin seeks to create.

Granite as a Central Material

Granite is the main material throughout the cabin. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for both structural and aesthetic purposes. The varied colors and textures of granite enhance the interior and draw occupants closer to nature. With its ability to retain heat, granite creates a comfortable environment while engaging users with its tactile qualities.

The large, sculptural rocks invite occupants to interact with their natural surroundings, blending the boundaries between indoor and outdoor space. This design emphasizes the importance of the Earth’s healing properties and inspires a deeper appreciation for 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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