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Hollow Brick Structures with Geothermal Heating for a Sustainable Meditation Retreat

Author:
Yun Zhang
Hollow Brick Structures with Geothermal Heating for a Sustainable Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing hollow brick construction and geothermal heating, the meditation retreat embodies sustainability while providing serene spaces for reflection and communal connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hollow brick construction filled with local soil for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating to minimize energy consumption.
03
Features a central water reservoir for practical water management and aesthetics.
04
Includes a dome-shaped meditation room that facilitates natural ventilation.
05
Designed with modular elements to encourage flexible usage and adaptability for various activities.
The meditation camp architectural project consists of two identical structures designed to support wellness activities such as yoga and meditation. This project emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and a connection with nature, creating a serene environment conducive to personal reflection and community engagement.

Each structure is strategically placed to form an integrated experience, including communal spaces for group activities and quiet areas for individual meditation. The design incorporates central water features that enhance the aesthetic while serving practical purposes related to water management.

The layout promotes fluid circulation between different zones, allowing users to transition seamlessly between activities. Pathways intertwine with landscaped green areas, encouraging outdoor practices and interactions with the natural environment.

Sustainable Material Choices and Design Approaches

This meditation camp distinguishes itself through the innovative use of sustainable materials and construction techniques. The primary structural elements include hollow wooden bricks, which are sourced and filled with local soil, optimizing thermal performance and enhancing insulation. These materials are chosen not only for their sustainability but also for their aesthetic appeal, aligning with the overall design philosophy.

Concrete beams support the structures, providing durability while maintaining simplicity in the design. Unique to this project is the roof design. Sloping angles facilitate rainwater collection—addressing resource management effectively—while also incorporating roof glazing that maximizes natural light.

Attention to user experience is paramount; meditation spaces boast dome-like structures made from wooden slats, which allow for ventilation and promote tranquility. This innovative design enhances natural acoustics and creates a calming environment. The presence of integrated seating areas made from sustainable materials underscores the commitment to ecological responsibility.

Integration with the Natural Landscape

The design prioritizes harmony with the surrounding landscape. The camp employs topographical advantages to minimize environmental disruption, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the site’s ecological value. Water features, specifically a central reservoir, not only serve essential functions but also enrich the visual experience, drawing users into the landscape.

The project reflects a thoughtful balance between built forms and natural environments, encouraging occupants to engage with their surroundings. By thoughtfully designing spaces that promote peaceful interactions and mindfulness, this architecture offers a functional retreat dedicated to personal growth.

For those interested in exploring more about this meditation camp architecture, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, please delve deeper into the project presentation. Examine how the architectural ideas transform into a functional space that serves both individual needs and community aspirations.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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