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Herbal Plant Green Wall with Local Wood Reflection Cabin

Author:
Nathira Haja
Herbal Plant Green Wall with Local Wood Reflection Cabin

Project in-detail

A cabin with a green wall of herbal plants combines local wood and ample natural light to create a reflective space for meditation and self-discovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Capable of accommodating diverse activities for self-exploration through designated writing and drawing areas.
02
Integration of a green wall creates a unique connection to nature while enhancing air quality.
03
Natural light is maximized through large windows, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
04
Construction utilizes local wood, reinforcing environmental sustainability and regional identity.
05
A rainwater collection system supports self-sufficiency and eco-friendly practices.

The Vipassana Cabin is designed to create a peaceful space for meditation and personal reflection in a forest environment. It draws inspiration from the ancient practice of Vipassana, which focuses on seeing reality as it truly is. The cabin’s overall design encourages users to connect with nature while offering an environment conducive to self-discovery and contemplation.

Spatial Arrangement

Inside, the cabin features clearly defined areas for different activities. There are spaces dedicated to meditation, writing, and drawing, allowing for a variety of reflective practices. A wall made of herbal plants separates meditation areas from private spaces, enhancing the calm atmosphere and helping users focus on their thoughts.

Materials and Longevity

Local wood is used throughout the cabin, ensuring the structure blends with its surroundings. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability. The exterior wood is treated to resist weather, which protects the cabin and extends its lifespan. Glass is incorporated into the roof and windows, allowing natural light to fill the interior while reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Environmental Features

The design also prioritizes ventilation, with a raised floor that encourages air circulation and maintains a comfortable environment in all seasons. A fireplace is included in the pantry area, providing warmth during colder weather, which enhances the cabin's usability. The rainwater collection system further supports a sustainable approach, collecting and filtering rainwater for practical use.

The cabin's design emphasizes a strong connection to nature. Large windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, bringing the calming presence of nature indoors. This thoughtful inclusion not only improves the experience of meditation but also reinforces the purpose of the cabin as a retreat for introspection and mindfulness.

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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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