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Half-Cylinder Cabin with Radiata Pine and Cedar Roofing for Mindful Living

Authors:
Jędrzej Jedwabny, Aleksandra Kowańska
Half-Cylinder Cabin with Radiata Pine and Cedar Roofing for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a half-cylinder shape and a combination of radiata pine and cedar roofing, the cabin effectively blends with its natural surroundings while providing a tranquil space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on stilts to minimize ground impact.
02
Roof designed to collect rainwater for nurturing flowers.
03
Sliding windows convert the cabin into an outdoor terrace.
04
Internally features a shelf for optimal sunlight exposure for flower essence preparation.
05
Hidden storage solutions maintain an organized and uncluttered space.

The Funnel cabin is a thoughtful design that fits well within its landscape. Set in a peaceful area, it serves as a retreat for meditation and reflection. The cabin features a unique half-cylinder shape that maximizes sunlight and blends into its surroundings. The design emphasizes ecological responsibility while encouraging a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Materiality

The choice of materials is important for the cabin’s sustainability goals. Radiata pine is used for both the structure and flooring, creating a durable base and a warm interior. Sheep wool provides insulation, which has natural thermal qualities. Plywood finishes add to the inviting feel of the space. The roof and shingles, made of red cedar wood, help collect rainwater without needing chemical treatments, enhancing the project’s environmental focus.

Functional Design

Various elements of the design support practices like mindfulness and meditation. The roof is designed to collect rainwater for watering flowers and offers guests a place to wash before meditation sessions. The cabin features large windows that allow natural light to flood the space and create a visual connection with the outdoors. These windows can slide open, creating an experience that connects the interior with the terrace outside.

Spatial Arrangement

Inside, the layout promotes interaction and accessibility. A fireplace acts as a central feature, bringing warmth and encouraging gatherings. Hidden storage solutions keep the space organized and clear of clutter. A shelf positioned between the windows takes advantage of sunlight, allowing for the preparation of flower essences, enriching the activities that take place in the cabin.

Elevated Structure

Raised on stilts, the cabin sits above the ground, reducing its impact on the environment. This design choice creates a sense of floating, making it visually lighter in the landscape. The careful alignment with the sun's path enhances the light entering the building, contributing to a brighter and more inviting atmosphere inside.

The combination of these design features creates a space that emphasizes simplicity and a deep connection to nature. Each element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall experience, encouraging a respectful engagement with the surrounding environment.

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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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