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Exploring Empty Space Through Scaffolds in Tokyo Meditation Cabins

Authors:
Anna Pylypenko, Nelia Moroz, Anastasiia Aniskina, Mariia Samiilenko
Exploring Empty Space Through Scaffolds in Tokyo Meditation Cabins
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Scaffolds define the meditation cabins in Tokyo, transforming urban density into quiet spaces for reflection through a thoughtful exploration of light and empty space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation cabins are designed to reflect the transient nature of Tokyo’s urban environment.
02
Light plays a central role, enhancing the sense of presence within each cabin.
03
Scaffolds serve both structural and experiential purposes throughout the design.
04
Each cabin showcases a different architectural perspective from various architects.
05
The concept emphasizes the journey from urban density to inner tranquility.

The project is set in the bustling and densely populated city of Tokyo, designed as a space for meditation and reflection. The goal is to create an environment that contrasts with the city's lively atmosphere, centered on the idea of empty space as a pathway to inner peace. The design engages users by combining architectural forms with ambient qualities, allowing a connection to thoughts and feelings while situated in a busy urban context.

Conceptual Framework

The concept of "empty space" serves as the underlying principle of the design. It is viewed as a gray zone situated between clearly defined forms. This framework guides the creation of spaces that promote contemplation. Scaffolds play an important role in the project. These structures are functional during the day and become voids at night, highlighting the shifting nature of urban environments. This transition mirrors the journey into meditation, navigating from the external bustle to a quieter mental space.

Light and Experience

Light is a critical element in the meditation cabins, shaping the user experience significantly. Upon entering, individuals find that the cabin is filled with light, which enhances the feeling of presence and leads them inward. This use of light does more than serve a practical function; it creates an atmosphere suited for meditation, guiding users to explore deeper internal landscapes. The emphasis on luminosity enriches the overall experience, making it a key component of the design.

Architectural Diversity

Each cabin showcases a different architectural perspective, introducing a range of design philosophies to the project. This variety creates multiple unique experiences, encouraging visitors to engage with the distinctive atmosphere of each cabin. The absence of specific discussions about materials allows the focus to shift away from physical aspects and toward the qualities of the space itself. This reinforces the intention of creating a thoughtful environment for meditation.

Temporary scaffolds are carefully positioned alongside more permanent structures in the city. This relationship captures the essence of urban life—dynamic, changing, and deeply human. The experience of moving through these spaces, paired with the effects of light, speaks to a commitment to fostering reflection and clarity amid the growing complexity of city living.

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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
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