Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Hemp Rope Envelope and Timber Core Define a Unique Meditation Sanctuary

Authors:
Wenzhao Jia, Chi Zhang, Kai Wang, Jiani You, Kai Wang
Hemp Rope Envelope and Timber Core Define a Unique Meditation Sanctuary

Project in-detail

A unique floating meditation space utilizes a hemp rope envelope and a timber core to create an adaptable environment that fosters self-reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating design integrates air and nature into the meditation experience.
02
Double spiral staircase enhances movement between contrasting environments.
03
Hemp rope envelope allows for natural light and environmental engagement.
04
Modular flooring adapts for various meditation practices and user needs.
05
Timber core construction provides warmth and stability within the space.

Floating Meditation is set in a natural environment that actively engages with its surroundings, providing a space for introspection and self-reflection. The design concept centers on integrating natural elements—air and greenery—into the meditation process. By connecting users with nature, the intention is to create an atmosphere that supports contemplation, reflecting on the themes of Past, Now, and Future.

Structural Core and External Envelope

Two main components make up the design: the structural core and the external envelope. The structural core forms the foundation of the meditation space, using layered timber pieces that ensure stability while offering a warm atmosphere. This core acts as a quiet retreat for contemplation, allowing different forms of meditation to take place within its walls.

The external envelope, created from hemp rope, introduces a lightness to the structure, facilitating interaction between indoors and outdoors. This design feature enhances the overall appearance and allows users to connect with the natural landscape, ensuring that the elements are a part of the meditation experience.

Double Spiral Staircase

A notable aspect of the design is the double spiral staircase. This staircase serves as an important link between the internal meditation space and the open air. It helps people move through the building while marking the transition from the enclosed areas to the expansive landscape outside. One path leads to a darker, quiet area for deep reflection, while the other invites the flow of light, encouraging users to engage with the changing qualities of their surroundings.

Floor Plan Flexibility

The meditation space features a flexible floor plan with modular components that users can rearrange as needed. Generally, the floor maintains a flat, tatami-like surface that is suitable for daily use. However, it can also be easily transformed into a single platform for meditation by reconfiguring four pieces. This adaptability reflects the design's consideration of user needs and its focus on supporting personal introspection.

Throughout the space, materials like timber and rope play a key role in creating a calm atmosphere. Their strategic use fosters an environment conducive to reflection and connects users with the surrounding nature. This careful attention to detail creates a meditation sanctuary that encourages a deeper awareness of oneself and the world outside.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy