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Flexible Folding Panels and Local Wood Create a Serene Meditation Cabin

Authors:
Carles Margineda rubies, Klara Wanner
Flexible Folding Panels and Local Wood Create a Serene Meditation Cabin

Project in-detail

The unique folding panels and use of local wood create a flexible cabin that serves as an ideal retreat for meditation in the tranquil forest of Ozolini.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique folding panels enhance natural light and views while providing insulation at night.
02
Constructed primarily from locally sourced wood, promoting regional sustainability.
03
The cabin includes a rainwater collection system capable of sustaining five days' water supply.
04
Interior layout features a dedicated meditation area with multiple panoramic windows.
05
A two-sided roof design facilitates snow shedding and integrates with the forest landscape.

"Peace of Forest" is an architectural design located in the calm landscape of Ozolini. The cabin is a retreat that promotes relaxation and reflection through its carefully considered design and function. Its main purpose is to connect individuals with nature, while also addressing the needs posed by a cold climate.

Design Concept

The project has two primary goals: creating a livable space that minimizes environmental impact and developing a flexible layout that integrates with the natural surroundings. The design includes orientation options that enhance sunlight exposure and views, allowing the cabin to blend into the forest environment.

Folding Panels

A notable feature of the cabin is the folding panels that construct the exterior. These panels can be opened to provide wide views and to let natural light fill the space. When closed, they offer warmth and security during cold nights. This design responds to the challenge of maintaining a connection with the outdoors while ensuring comfort indoors.

Spatial Organization

The cabin's interior is divided into two key areas: practical spaces and a dedicated meditation zone. The practical area encompasses a kitchen, entrance space, and bathroom. These elements are arranged thoughtfully to enhance ease of movement and usability. The meditation area contains a staged fireplace and multiple windows that offer sweeping views of the forest and create a peaceful atmosphere.

Material Choices

Materials used in construction reflect a focus on sustainability. The outside finishing includes varnished wood ribbons and waterproof sheets. Inside, varnished wood panels make up the walls and ceiling. Local wood fiber serves as insulation, paired with a vapor barrier and wooden wall structure. The chosen materials aim to reduce environmental impact while providing durability in the forest setting.

Rainwater Collection

An interesting aspect of the design is the two-sided roof, which helps with snow lift and collects rainwater. The collected rainwater is stored in a tank that can hold enough for five days, enhancing the cabin's self-sufficiency. Additionally, a water circulation pump is positioned above the ceiling, maintaining an uncluttered interior and allowing for clear views of the serene 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

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