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Gravitational Waves and Recycled Wood Form an Urban Meditation Haven

Authors:
Lucie Di capua, Mariateresa Giammetti, Angela Girardo
Gravitational Waves and Recycled Wood Form an Urban Meditation Haven

Project in-detail

A purple-black monolith shaped like a menhir, the meditation cabin utilizes recycled wood and dynamic light waves to create an immersive retreat for reflection within the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
A menhir-inspired design encapsulates spiritual significance.
02
Dynamic light waves simulate gravitational forces, altering perceptions of time.
03
The cabin's grid structure utilizes warm recycled wood for sustainability.
04
A small narthex enhances acoustic and visual isolation from the city.
05
Integrated soundscapes replicate cosmic sounds, enriching the meditative experience.

The meditation cabin is designed as a menhir, displaying a purple-black monolithic form that stands in contrast to the busy urban environment of Tokyo. Located in the business districts of Shinjuku, Chiyoda, Minato, and Chuo, the cabin serves as a retreat from the fast pace of city life. It aims to fulfill the need for spiritual landmarks within the urban landscape, creating a space for reflection and calm.

Architecture Concept

The focus of the design is on isolation and meditation. Inside, the cabin features a grid system made of warm recycled wood. This choice emphasizes a connection to nature while promoting sustainability. The wooden grid acts as a barrier to help users disconnect from outside distractions. As individuals enter, they leave behind the sounds and sights of the city, stepping into an intimate environment that encourages contemplation.

Light and Sound Integration

A notable aspect of the design is the approach to light. The wooden grid incorporates light waves that simulate gravitational waves. These light waves are engineered to change shape and intensity over time, creating a dynamic atmosphere inside the cabin. This shifting light alters the user's perception of time, enhancing the meditative quality of the space. Sound elements that mimic cosmic soundscapes are also integrated, adding another layer to the immersive experience.

User Experience

The combination of light, sound, and spatial design works together to connect individuals to a broader, universal experience. The environment is carefully structured to nurture a sense of peace. The cabin serves as a place for quiet reflection and thoughtful engagement with oneself. As people step through the cabin's entrance, they transition from the bustling city into a tranquil atmosphere, where they can focus on their thoughts and find a moment of respite.

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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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