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Foldable Altar and Porous Spaces in a Tranquil Meditation Cabin

Authors:
Alan Abraham, Kirat Kohli, Janvi Paun, Janvi Sojitra
Foldable Altar and Porous Spaces in a Tranquil Meditation Cabin
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A foldable altar positioned to harness natural light defines a tranquil meditation cabin, emphasizing the connection between interior spaces and their natural surroundings through the use of glass and wood materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
Foldable altar designed for optimal sunlight exposure.
02
Modular structure enhances flexibility for various uses.
03
Porous envelope integrates seamlessly with natural surroundings.
04
Focus on biophilic design elements to enhance user experience.
05
Uses glass and wood to strengthen the connection with the environment.

"Ethereal: Poetry of Nature" is a project that integrates buildings with the surrounding landscape. It is designed for meditation and for processing flower essence, aiming to create a peaceful space for reflection. The concept emphasizes the connection between constructed spaces and nature, creating an atmosphere that invites quiet contemplation.

MODULAR DESIGN

The project features a modular design that allows flexibility. By using geometric patterns like repetition, scaling, and rotation, the result is a lightweight structure that can be arranged in different ways. This modularity enhances how people interact with the space, making it suitable for various activities.

NATURAL LIGHT UTILIZATION

Natural light is essential to the design. A foldable altar is placed in a way that captures sunlight from the North, making it ideal for meditation and allowing flowers to dry. This focus on natural light helps create a welcoming environment. The layout provides room for both individual and group meditation, promoting a sense of peace and comfort.

MATERIAL SELECTION

The design uses glass and wood, which work well with the natural surroundings. These materials help create a strong connection with the environment while ensuring the structure is sturdy. They also blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing users to feel part of nature without losing the comfort they require.

SENSORY INTEGRATION

The structure is designed with openings that connect it with the landscape. This design choice allows light, wind, and sound to flow freely, enhancing the experience for users. The nearby water bodies emphasize the relationship between the building and the environment, adding another layer of tranquility.

The arrangement of spaces encourages meditation, with a raised structure providing views of the landscape. This design detail enriches the experience, inviting users to engage with their surroundings and allowing nature to play a significant role in the space.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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