Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Floating Roof Cabins with Mirror Walls and Integrated Plant Mesh

Author:
Amit Beery
Floating Roof Cabins with Mirror Walls and Integrated Plant Mesh

Project in-detail

A floating roof design seamlessly integrates a mirror wall and climbing plant mesh within compact meditation cabins, providing a tranquil space for reflection in the bustling urban landscape of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a mirror wall that visually expands the interior space.
02
Cabins include an integrated plant mesh to support climbing vegetation.
03
Floating roof design enhances airflow and natural light throughout the structure.
04
Size dimensions of 2 by 3 meters allow for versatile placement in urban areas.
05
Curved wooden benches provide ergonomic seating for meditation and reflection.

The meditation cabins in Tokyo draw inspiration from the Torii gate, which symbolizes the transition from everyday life to a more sacred space. Located in an urban environment, these cabins provide areas for quiet reflection, offering peace amidst the fast-paced city. The design emphasizes a strong connection to nature alongside a focus on personal awareness.

Structural Components

The cabins feature a clear arrangement of wooden elements, such as a back double board wooden panel and a front double board wooden panel. These components create a cohesive facade that is both functional and visually appealing. A wooden platform provides stability while supporting the minimalist design. For added privacy, side panels are equipped with an integrated rolling curtain cassette, complemented by a semi-translucent privacy rolling curtain that can be adjusted as needed.

Integration of Nature

A standout aspect of the project is the use of stainless steel mesh for climbing plants, which is secured to the planter and roof. This element allows for an “inner green axis” that consists of a climbing plant wall and an elevated small tree. Together, these features create a natural division of space, enhancing the overall sensory experience for users while also providing visual interest for those outside the cabins.

Spatial Dynamics

The cabins are designed with dimensions of 2 by 3 meters, making them suitable for various settings, whether in larger public spaces or tighter urban environments. The floating roof design promotes adequate airflow and light, fostering a feeling of openness while maintaining a connection to the external surroundings. This arrangement deepens the user’s experience by merging indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless transition between the two.

User Experience

An integral curved wooden bench is included in the interior, offering a comfortable place for meditation. This detail not only adds functionality but also enhances the overall ergonomic quality of the space, ensuring users can fully engage with their surroundings. The architectural language encourages personal reflection and invites interaction, making it possible for individuals to connect with both the interior and the urban landscape outside.

The mirror wall plays a key role in expanding the visual depth of the green strip, linking the user to both the immediate environment and the broader cityscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy