Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Hempcrete Sanctuary with Recycled Glass Elements for Mindful Reflection

Author:
Stephanie Lee
Hempcrete Sanctuary with Recycled Glass Elements for Mindful Reflection

Project in-detail

Constructed with hempcrete and incorporating recycled glass elements, the Shala offers a focused space for meditation, emphasizing sustainability and a deep connection to the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built primarily from hempcrete, which continues to absorb carbon dioxide over time.
02
Features a flower essence altar designed to maximize natural sunlight exposure.
03
Incorporates a mural of recycled glass bottles, blending art with sustainability.
04
The layout includes an extended entrance that guides visitors toward meditation.
05
Designed to harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem, promoting ecological wellness.

The Meditation Cabin, known as the Shala, serves a unique purpose in promoting mindfulness and self-reflection. Located in a natural environment, the Shala is designed to create an intimate connection between its occupants and the surrounding landscape. The design concept focuses on enhancing the experience of meditation while integrating sustainable practices into its structure.

Sustainable Materials

Hempcrete is the main material used in the construction of the Shala. This material behaves as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide during the growth of the hemp plants and continuing to do so as it cures. This makes hempcrete an effective choice for maintaining a reduced carbon footprint. Its thermal properties also contribute to energy efficiency within the cabin.

In addition to hempcrete, the project features recycled glass bottles as part of a mural floral artwork set into the western wall. This adds visual interest to the structure while aligning with sustainability goals. The roof is made with recycled rubber tiles, composed of 80% recycled materials. Such choices reflect a thoughtful approach to material selection, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

Architectural Layout

The layout of the Shala is intended to create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. An extended entrance leads guests toward the cabin, guiding them on their journey from the outside world into a peaceful space for meditation. This approach encourages users to leave behind distractions and immerse themselves in contemplation.

Inside, the design includes a flower essence altar positioned to catch natural sunlight throughout the day. This detail not only enriches the meditative experience but also connects the interior to the outside environment. The inclusion of seating allows users to comfortably engage with their thoughts and surroundings, deepening their experience in this tranquil setting.

The combination of these elements creates a space focused on well-being and environmental respect. The Shala stands as a thoughtful structure where meditation and sustainability come together, supporting both personal reflection and ecological awareness. The design’s straightforward features allow occupants to engage fully with their practices while fostering a sense of harmony with nature.

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