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Floating Islands and Glass Facades in a Natural Woodland Retreat

Author:
YUNG-CHUN SHIH
Floating Islands and Glass Facades in a Natural Woodland Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with floating islands and expansive glass facades, this woodland retreat merges seamlessly with its natural surroundings, providing a serene environment for meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with floating islands that allow for meditation on water.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates extensive glass facades to maximize natural light and forest views.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that harmonizes with the surrounding trees.
05
Includes a semi-outdoor forest area to promote interaction with nature.
The "Meditation Forests" project serves as an architectural initiative designed to foster mindfulness and relaxation within a natural setting. Located within the context of a meditation camp, this project incorporates various components that facilitate both personal reflection and communal engagement. The central tenet of the design is to create spaces that harmonize with the surrounding forest, thereby enhancing the experience of visitors seeking sanctuary from the demands of urban living.

Spatially, the project includes guest accommodations, meditation rooms, a sauna area, and multi-functional open spaces. Each element has been intentionally positioned to maximize natural light and minimize disturbance to the existing ecosystem. This integration of built structures with the natural landscape is a foundational aspect of the overall design philosophy, emphasizing sustainability and wellness.

Unique Design Approaches and Functionality

The project distinguishes itself through its innovative use of materials and spatial organization. By incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass, the design not only respects regional aesthetics but also encourages a tactile connection with nature. The use of large glass panels facilitates views of the surroundings while allowing natural light to permeate indoor spaces, thus enhancing the overall ambiance.

Moreover, the arrangement of the architectural elements is strategically designed to create diverse experiences within the site. The "Floating Islands" feature is particularly notable; these aquatic spaces serve both recreational and contemplative purposes. Visitors can engage in meditative practices on the water, drawing inspiration from the environment around them. This approach to architectural design is tailored to foster a deeper connection between individuals and their surroundings.

Integration with Nature

Another distinguishing feature of the project is its focus on preserving existing tree canopies and vegetation. The design incorporates a semi-outdoor forest area, which encourages visitors to explore and engage with the natural habitat. This element not only enriches the overall aesthetic but also serves educational purposes, helping visitors understand the importance of environmental stewardship.

The varied functions of the spaces, from secluded meditation rooms to communal areas, enable a wide range of activities centered around wellness. This flexibility in programming allows the space to adapt to different user needs, further increasing its relevance and usability.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project, the architectural plans, sections, and designs provide detailed insights into the innovative approaches employed in this initiative. Exploring these materials will elucidate how architectural ideas have been materialized in the "Meditation Forests" project, further illustrating its purpose and significance within the context of wellness architecture.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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