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Experiencing Nature Through Thatch Roofs and Local Timber in Meditative Forest Cabins

Authors:
Chang yuan max Hsu, Yasamin Mayyas, Veronika Volkova, David Jimenez
Experiencing Nature Through Thatch Roofs and Local Timber in Meditative Forest Cabins

Project in-detail

Crafted with thatch roofs and locally sourced timber, the meditative forest cabins offer tranquil retreat spaces designed to deepen the connection between nature and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thatch roofs provide natural insulation and blend seamlessly with the forest environment.
02
Locally sourced timber is utilized to enhance sustainability and support the regional economy.
03
The bent A-frame design promotes efficient structural performance while allowing for expansive interior spaces.
04
Flexible fabric screens adapt spaces for privacy, merging indoor and outdoor experiences.
05
Each cabin is oriented to maximize views and foster a deep connection to the surrounding landscape.
The project consists of a series of minimalist forest cabins located in Latvia, designed with an emphasis on meditation and introspection. These structures are strategically placed within a dense forest area, creating an environment conducive to reflection and personal retreat. The architectural design serves to harmonize with the natural landscape, integrating human existence with the surrounding ecosystem while promoting serenity and mindfulness.

Sustainability and local material usage are fundamental aspects of the project. The design incorporates local wood, thatch, and organic textiles, chosen for their environmental suitability and aesthetic qualities. The cabins feature circular roofs that slope inward, supported by irregularly spaced wooden columns, which offer both structural integrity and a sense of organic form. Key functionalities include spaces for individual meditation, group gatherings, and nature engagement, allowing users to experience the forest intimately.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural framework emphasizes simplicity, aligning with a cultural heritage that values minimalism and connection to nature. The cabins are designed to be multifunctional; spaces can be adapted for various activities, resonating with the needs of users while fostering a tranquil atmosphere. The use of fabric screens not only provides flexibility for privacy but also maintains connections between indoor and outdoor environments.

The cabins incorporate dry toilet facilities that align with environmental considerations, reducing the ecological footprint of the project. Each structure is conceptually rooted in traditional architecture, yet the design adapts these principles to modern sensibilities, ultimately supporting a diverse range of user experiences.

Material Considerations and Technical Details

Materials play a critical role in the overall design strategy. The architects selected locally sourced wood for structural elements, bringing a warm aesthetic that integrates with the surrounding forest. The thatched roofs contribute to natural insulation, while organic fabric screens provide necessary adaptability. Attention to detail also manifests in the assembly techniques that promote longevity and durability in varying weather conditions.

The cabin layout fosters interaction with the natural environment, with open spaces allowing for panoramic views and engagement with surrounding elements. The carefully considered positioning of communal areas, such as fire pits, invites shared experiences while also catering to solitary retreat, reinforcing the project's core function as a meditative sanctuary.

To understand the intricate details of this architectural project further, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation for a comprehensive insight into these architectural ideas.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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