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Embracing Serenity with Tongue and Groove Wood Siding and Bi-Folding Efficiency

Author:
Terrence Etienne
Embracing Serenity with Tongue and Groove Wood Siding and Bi-Folding Efficiency

Project in-detail

With its tongue and groove wood siding and clever bi-folding elements, the cabin creates an adaptable space for meditation and the processing of flower essences, fostering a deep connection to both nature and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a square within a square layout, enhancing spatial balance.
02
Operable aluminium windows allow for natural ventilation and light control.
03
A concealed folding worktable maintains an uncluttered meditation space.
04
Tongue and groove wood siding creates a warm, inviting aesthetic.
05
Bi-folding doors support functional versatility while preserving tranquility.

The Meditation Cabin serves as a calm space for meditation and the processing of flower essences. Located in a quiet environment, the cabin features a distinctive design built around the idea of a square within a square. This layout creates a clear relationship between the building and its purpose, promoting reflection and mindfulness through its simple and functional design.

Geometric Form and Symbolism

The design revolves around the square shape, which brings stability and balance. The larger square outlines the entire building, while the smaller square defines the core space for meditation. This geometric choice is not just decorative; it connects to the four stages of life—birth, childhood, adulthood, and death—and the four main elements: earth, water, fire, and air. This thoughtful design invites users to ponder their links to nature and their own life journeys.

Materiality and Aesthetics

Materials play a significant role in the Meditation Cabin, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The structure is framed with wood, giving it a comforting and familiar look that blends with its surroundings. The exterior and interior are clad in tongue and groove wood siding, adding a rustic finish. The roof is made of standing seam metal, ensuring durability against weather changes. Operable windows made of aluminium and glass let in ample natural light and fresh air, enhancing the overall experience of the space.

Functional Versatility

The cabin's layout emphasizes flexibility, allowing it to shift from meditation space to work area as needed. A concealed folding worktable is built into the design for processing flower essences. When not in use, this table can be hidden within a wall cavity, keeping the area open and focused on meditation. Bi-folding doors further support this versatility by obscuring the worktable and maintaining a serene environment.

Natural Light and Connection to Environment

Natural light is carefully incorporated into the cabin, creating a lively atmosphere. Large operable windows are positioned to capture daylight throughout the day, enriching the meditation experience and connecting the indoors with the outdoor landscape. This design choice maintains an intimate relationship between the user and the environment, inviting nature into the space.

The Meditation Cabin provides a balanced approach between design, function, and nature. Details like the tongue and groove wood siding add texture and warmth, creating an inviting presence that aligns well with its peaceful surroundings.

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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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