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Floating Geometry in Timber Retreats for Mindfulness

Authors:
Tiza elizabeth Abraham, Satish Sreekumar, Thankam Philip
Floating Geometry in Timber Retreats for Mindfulness

Project in-detail

The cabin’s floating roof and sacred geometry create a meditative environment, providing a tranquil retreat that enhances mindfulness through a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating roof design enhances spatial connection with nature.
02
Incorporates sacred geometry to elevate meditation practices.
03
Rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.
04
Uses local timber to reduce environmental impact.
05
Kinetic energy pavers illuminate the surrounding landscape.

The Hoverden Meditation Cabin is a careful architectural response to the growing interest in mindfulness and the need for a connection with nature. Located among a circle of trees, the design features a circular form that integrates with the landscape, creating an inviting retreat for meditation. The concept focuses on themes of wholeness and personal growth, which are central to meditative practices.

Form and Spatial Organization

The circular layout allows easy movement and encourages users to interact with their surroundings. This design fosters a sense of awareness and contemplation, making it easier to engage in meditation. The arrangement of spaces is intentional, promoting fluid transitions that enhance the overall experience of being in a natural environment.

Structural Elements

One important aspect of the Hoverden is its floating roof. This feature serves as a protective overhead structure while simultaneously connecting the indoors to the outdoors. The roof symbolizes upliftment, reflecting the way nature surrounds and encompasses the cabin. It also provides essential shade, contributing to a comfortable environment for meditation and introspection.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is a guiding principle in the design. The Hoverden incorporates rainwater harvesting to manage water runoff effectively. Water is channeled into an external reflecting pool and a tank located above the wash area. Additionally, kinetic energy-generating paving blocks illuminate the surrounding landscape. A wood-burning stove is installed for heating, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly practices throughout the design.

Materiality

Local timber is the primary building material, ensuring both durability and a connection to the site. The use of glass panels allows natural light to fill the interior and creates a link between inside and outside, enhancing the experience of the surrounding nature. This combination of materials emphasizes the building’s relationship with its environment.

The ceiling features an intricate pattern inspired by sacred geometry. This design element not only adds visual interest but also enhances the space's vibrational qualities, promoting a sense of calm that supports meditation.

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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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