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Helical Structure Embracing Hedera Ivy for Tranquil Meditation Space

Authors:
Ilgım Eroğlu, Semiha Kan
Helical Structure Embracing Hedera Ivy for Tranquil Meditation Space

Project in-detail

The innovative helix structure, wrapped in Hedera ivy for natural insulation, creates a serene environment for meditation, harmoniously integrating with its Riga setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helix walls enhance panoramic views while providing structural support.
02
Natural insulation is achieved through the incorporation of Hedera ivy.
03
The design includes a dry toilet for improved user privacy and health.
04
Rainwater is collected and filtered for sustainable water management.
05
A traditional kuzine serves multiple functions, including cooking and heating.

Helix Baltica is located in Riga and focuses on establishing a deep connection between its users and the natural landscape surrounding it. The design features a helix structure that balances functionality and serves as a space for meditation. The cabin is intended to integrate with nature rather than compete with it, allowing for a tranquil escape.

Design Concept
The distinctive helix-shaped walls play a vital role in the architecture. They offer structural support while providing expansive views that enhance the meditation experience. This unique form fosters openness, encouraging occupants to engage fully with the interior space and the environment outside.

Material Integration
One key element of the design is Hedera Helix Baltica, an evergreen ivy sourced from nearby forests. This ivy not only contributes to the visual charm of the cabin but also functions as an effective insulator, helping to regulate temperature. By including this vegetation, the design establishes a close relationship with the natural world, creating a feeling of connection between the inside and outside spaces.

Local Resources
The cabin incorporates Riga pine as a primary building material. Using locally sourced wood reflects an emphasis on regional resources and sustainability. The exterior surfaces are intentionally left unfinished, enhancing durability and fitting in with the natural surroundings. This choice also highlights the project’s commitment to an eco-friendly approach.

Functional Spaces
The interior layout is designed with user experience in mind, providing clear areas for meditation and sanitation. A dry toilet is positioned away from the meditation area and is separated by a sliding door for privacy. Natural light fills the space through large glass walls and a glass roof, allowing users to see outside while maintaining a sense of seclusion.

The design also addresses water management with a roof that collects rainwater. This system filters and stores the water, promoting sustainable practices and encouraging occupants to be mindful of their consumption.

Completing the design is the inclusion of a “kuzine,” a traditional heating and cooking appliance. It offers warmth and cooking capabilities while adding an element of aroma to the environment. This feature enriches the overall sensory experience and contributes to the cabin's functional character.

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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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