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Heated Seats Within a Transparent Membrane Sanctuary

Author:
Katarzyna Jojko
Heated Seats Within a Transparent Membrane Sanctuary

Project in-detail

A transparent membrane houses two heated seats, creating an inviting retreat that transforms into a radiant lantern at night, fostering connection with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent membrane allows natural light to create variable interior ambiance.
02
Two heated seats serve as sources of warmth and illumination.
03
Design encourages user solitude during the day and social interaction at night.
04
Wooden base provides stability while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
05
Inspires connectivity with nature through its radiant nighttime functionality.

The Cabin Medication Project provides a quiet retreat designed to bring comfort and connection in a busy environment. Inspired by Japanese lanterns and Peruvian groundcherries, the concept focuses on creating a "Cocoon of Warmth." This pavilion is meant to serve users both during the day and at night, providing an escape from urban life while encouraging interaction with nature.

Structural Composition

The pavilion employs an elastic, see-through membrane. This choice allows natural light to enter, creating a soft glow that changes throughout the day. The lightweight membrane stands in contrast to the wooden base, which offers stability and a hint of organic beauty. Together, these elements form a structure that is both functional and inviting.

Interior Functionality

Inside, the cabin features two heated seats that serve dual purposes: they provide warmth and also act as sources of light. This combination enhances the intimate setting, making it a space for relaxation and quiet reflection. The design shifts from a daytime retreat to a warm beacon at night, allowing for varied experiences that meet the needs of users.

User Experience

The cabin effectively caters to both solitude and social connection. During the day, it offers a peaceful place for contemplation and recovery. As evening falls, it transforms into a bright spot that interacts with the surroundings, inviting a sense of community. This flexibility encourages people to engage with the space in a meaningful way.

The careful integration of light and warmth into the design creates a space where each moment feels distinct yet connected. The cabin serves not only as a shelter but also as an experience that deepens the relationship between the individual and their 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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