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Gabion-Walled Retreat Featuring Natural Wood and Green Roof Integration for Mindful Living

Author:
Ayelet Shalev
Gabion-Walled Retreat Featuring Natural Wood and Green Roof Integration for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Crafted with gabion walls and complemented by a green roof, this retreat harmonizes natural wood elements to create a serene space dedicated to mindfulness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced gabion walls made from native stone to enhance structural integrity and blend with the landscape.
02
Incorporates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve insulation for the cabins.
03
Features large windows that maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding forest.
04
Employs a minimalist interior design focused on essential furnishings to foster a meditative atmosphere.
05
Integrates wetland features for effective water management while supporting local ecosystems.
The "RAW NATURE" meditation cabins represent a thoughtful blend of architecture and the natural environment, situated in the serene locale of Vale de Moses. This project aims to create spaces conducive to mindfulness and reflection, serving as a retreat for individuals seeking connection with nature and themselves. The design emphasizes a harmonious interaction between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, ensuring that occupants can immerse themselves in the tranquility of their surroundings.

Functionally, the cabins are designed as spaces for meditation, yoga, and personal contemplation. Their layout is intentionally minimalist, focusing on providing essential amenities while highlighting simplicity. Each cabin features large windows to maximize natural light and frame views of the landscape, reinforcing the concept of a sanctuary within nature. This approach allows the spaces to breathe and change with the light, creating a dynamic environment conducive to introspection.

Key architectural details include the use of gabion walls formed from local stones, which not only contribute to the structural integrity of the cabins but also establish a tactile connection to the land. These walls facilitate natural temperature regulation while adding a distinct character that resonates with the surrounding geological features. Wood is another significant material in the project, utilized for both structural framing and interior finishes. Its warm texture enhances the overall atmosphere, inviting occupants to feel at home amidst natural surroundings.

The roofs of the cabins incorporate green elements, further integrating the structures into their environment. These green roofs not only provide insulation but also serve to promote biodiversity and effective stormwater management. The architectural design is characterized by clean lines and rectilinear forms, creating a modern aesthetic that remains respectful of traditional building styles found in the region. This dual engagement with contemporary and vernacular architecture fosters a sense of place, ensuring the project feels grounded within its context.

One of the unique aspects of the "RAW NATURE" project is its commitment to sustainability. The design prioritizes energy efficiency through passive solar heating and strategically placed windows that encourage natural ventilation. Furthermore, the thoughtful use of thermal mass materials helps maintain comfortable indoor climates throughout the year. Water management is addressed through the use of wetlands, which not only support local biodiversity but also enhance the ecological footprint of the project.

The interiors are purposefully designed to promote mindfulness, featuring minimal furnishings that allow for personal expression and focus on meditation practices. The cabins include essential elements such as a wash basin and storage solutions, ensuring functionality without cluttering the space. The emphasis on simplicity extends to the choice of finishes, which harmonize with the natural materials used in the construction.

Overall, the "RAW NATURE" meditation cabins stand as a testament to thoughtful design in architecture. They embody a responsible approach to building that respects the environment while offering refuge for individuals seeking solace. Each detail—from the selection of materials to the orientation of the buildings—reflects a deep commitment to both sustainability and the enhancement of human experience. By engaging with this project through its architectural plans and sections, one can explore the nuanced design ideas that further illustrate its dedication to creating a meaningful connection with nature. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural design and the underlying concepts, reviewing the architectural representations will offer valuable insights into the careful thought and intention woven throughout this project.
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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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