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Herbal Pond and Arched Voids Enhance Psychological Wellness with Local Granite and Composite Tiles

Authors:
Sanghyeon Kim, Seunghyun Yun, Yukyung Lee
Herbal Pond and Arched Voids Enhance Psychological Wellness with Local Granite and Composite Tiles

Project in-detail

Arched voids, a flowing herbal pond, and the use of local granite combine to create a serene environment tailored for meditation and psychological wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Arched voids create dynamic pathways, enhancing user experience and sensory immersion.
02
The herbal pond integrates natural water elements to promote tranquility and reflection.
03
Local granite is utilized not only for durability but also to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
04
Interior finishes feature warm wood, fostering a welcoming atmosphere throughout the facility.
05
A rainwater reuse system is implemented to support sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The project titled (EN)TRANCE is an architectural design focused on creating a therapeutic environment that facilitates meditation, relaxation, and personal reflection. Situated within a natural landscape, the design incorporates elements intended to promote mental wellness by combining innovative architectural strategies with the surrounding ecosystem. This project serves as a refuge for individuals seeking a connection with nature and an avenue for personal rejuvenation.

The core function of (EN)TRANCE revolves around psychological and emotional healing. It is designed to host activities such as yoga, meditation, and quiet contemplation, allowing users to step away from the demands of daily life. The arrangement of spaces supports a flow conducive to relaxation, while the design choices reflect a deep understanding of how architecture can impact human psychology.

The integration of sound and light is critical to the user experience. Large windows and glass partitions introduce natural light and provide views of the external environment, enhancing the sense of openness and tranquility. The structure includes a series of arch-shaped voids that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, creating pathways that lead visitors from one area to another while encouraging a slow transition from the outside world to an immersed retreat.

The design prioritizes sustainability, employing natural stone and wood materials that not only visually integrate the building with its surroundings but also promote durability. Additionally, features such as composite clay tiles for flooring are selected for their moderate thermal properties, contributing to the overall comfort within the space. The project includes a rainwater reuse system, further reinforcing a commitment to ecological design.

A notable distinction of (EN)TRANCE is its conceptual framework surrounding the idea of "trance," which symbolizes a heightened state of awareness and introspection. By utilizing design elements such as a central meditation mass and a flowing herbal pond, the project creates immersive environments that encourage deep meditative practices and enhance the visitor's sensory experiences.

The multifaceted zones within (EN)TRANCE, including the Trance Area and Flowing Zone, enhance its functional diversity. Each zone is specifically tailored to foster various forms of meditation and relaxation, providing users with spaces that adapt to their needs. This thoughtful spatial organization is key to establishing an atmosphere conducive to both individual and communal reflection.

This architectural design exemplifies a mindful approach to user experience, focusing on the intersection of mental health and environmental consciousness. The careful integration of local materials with innovative design solutions establishes a coherent identity for the project that stands apart from typical wellness facilities.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind (EN)TRANCE, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Understanding the nuances of the design will enhance appreciation for its function and the conceptual thought embedded in the architecture.

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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

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
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Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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