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Floating Therapeutic Space Framed by Glass and Natural Stone

Author:
Terrence Etienne
Floating Therapeutic Space Framed by Glass and Natural Stone

Project in-detail

The cabin’s floating therapeutic space, framed by glass and anchored by natural stone, enhances wellness and meditation through seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabin features a floating design that enhances views of the landscape.
02
Natural stone wall reflects local architectural traditions.
03
Timber and glass walls maximize natural light and visual connection to nature.
04
Meditation terraces are integrated throughout the site for contemplative spaces.
05
Design promotes ecological integrity by allowing vegetation to grow beneath.

The design centers around a cabin that interacts smoothly with its natural setting, offering a space dedicated to relaxation and therapy. Located in a landscape that enhances its purpose, the cabin features two distinct forms. Each serves a specific function while maintaining a unified architectural approach. The overall design encourages visitors to connect with their surroundings and find tranquility amidst nature.

Supporting Storage Space

The structure's supporting storage space is built from natural stone, reflecting the style of local farmhouses. This wall provides a strong foundation and anchors the cabin to the landscape. The use of natural stone contributes to the building's durability. It also creates an aesthetically pleasing link to the surrounding environment, making the cabin feel like part of the terrain.

Main Therapeutic Area

The main space for massage therapy and meditation contrasts with the solid stone wall. It is framed by timber and glass walls that allow plenty of natural light to fill the interior. The design places this therapeutic area on a gentle slope, giving it a floating appearance. This feeling of elevation fosters a calming atmosphere that aligns well with its intended use for relaxation.

Meditation Terraces

Throughout the site, a series of trellised meditation terraces provide spaces for quiet reflection. These terraces are thoughtfully positioned to engage with the views of the valley. By incorporating such features, the design emphasizes mindfulness and connection to nature. They invite users to step outside, sit, and absorb the peaceful surroundings.

The overall design balances strength with lightness. The main therapeutic area appears to float above the ground, supported by slender elements that do not obstruct the growth of vegetation below. This approach helps preserve the ecology of the site while creating a unique experience for visitors who come to find peace and quiet in nature.

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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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