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Exploring Introspection Through Enclosed Spaces and Natural Light

Author:
Clodie Thibaudeau
Exploring Introspection Through Enclosed Spaces and Natural Light

Project in-detail

Enclosed spaces create an intimate atmosphere for meditation, enhanced by natural light that invites connection with the surrounding urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The first level is designed with an enclosed, darker space for deep introspection.
02
Natural light floods the second level, creating a serene atmosphere for external engagement.
03
The design emphasizes a barrier-free layout, encouraging fluid movement throughout the space.
04
Intimate spaces foster personalized meditation experiences tailored to individual needs.
05
Sustainable practices inform the entire concept, enhancing environmental sensitivity within urban settings.

Tokyo Urban Meditation Cabins is a thoughtfully designed space located in the vibrant city of Tokyo. It aims to support meditation practices for individuals with diverse needs and experiences. The concept revolves around providing a peaceful retreat from the urban environment, allowing users to connect with themselves and their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Spatial Organization

The structure is organized into two levels that offer different experiences. The first level is an enclosed space with darker tones, specifically designed for introspection and focused meditation. This environment is intended to minimize distractions, creating a private setting where individuals can reflect quietly and deepen their meditative practice.

Atmospheric Contrast

In contrast, the second level embraces openness and natural light. This space encourages meditation that connects with the outside world, allowing users to experience the presence of nature and hints of the bustling city. The design fosters a balanced atmosphere, guiding individuals to engage with their environment while finding moments of calm.

Fluid Movement

A key feature of the design is the absence of barriers. The layout promotes fluid movement throughout the cabins, similar to the way meditation itself flows. This openness enhances accessibility, enabling users to move freely and adapt their meditation styles according to personal needs and preferences. It invites exploration in how one interacts with space during practice.

Light and shadow within the architecture create an engaging experience. Natural light in the upper level contrasts with the subdued lighting below, enhancing the distinction between introspective solitude and the liveliness of the outside world. This interplay helps deepen the user’s meditation, fostering a connection that resonates well beyond the physical space.

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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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