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Hydraulic Platform and Flexible Timber Structure Enhancing Mindfulness in Urban Sanctuary

Authors:
Sofoklis Kaltsios, Iliana Giera
Hydraulic Platform and Flexible Timber Structure Enhancing Mindfulness in Urban Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Incorporating a hydraulic platform within a flexible timber structure, this urban sanctuary offers a unique space for mindfulness and meditation, seamlessly blending contemporary design with natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates a hydraulic platform that allows for real-time height and orientation adjustments, enhancing the meditative experience.
02
Flexible timber materials enable dynamic interactions with the environment, responding to natural elements such as light and air.
03
Translucent glass panels are integrated throughout, creating a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.
04
Charred wooden shingles are used on the exterior to promote durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic that echoes traditional Japanese architecture.
05
The vertical arrangement of the cabin offers distinct atmospheric phases, guiding users through a curated journey of mindfulness.
The Tsunagari Meditation Cabin is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful response to the fast-paced urban context of Tokyo. Designed as a public sanctuary, the cabin serves the vital function of offering individuals a space for reflection and meditation, fostering a connection with oneself in the midst of a bustling city environment. The term "tsunagari," meaning "connection," aptly encapsulates the project’s intent to bridge personal introspection with the natural world and the surrounding community.

This cabin represents an innovative approach to meditation spaces, diverging from traditional enclosed environments by emphasizing fluidity and adaptability. Its design invites users to engage in various meditative practices while experiencing a range of spatial environments. The three distinct levels of the structure cater to different states of meditation, providing unique atmospheres that encourage mindfulness and tranquility. Each elevation allows for a gradual journey deeper into one's self, symbolizing layers of mental clarity and emotional release.

Key elements of the design include a flexible outer shell that allows for dynamic interactions between the interior space and its external environment. This material choice is rooted in the desire for a structure that is responsive to natural elements such as wind and light, enhancing the overall meditation experience. The use of glass panels promotes transparency, creating an unobtrusive dialogue between the cabin's visitors and the surrounding landscape, while also ensuring a connection to the outside world without compromising on serenity.

The integration of wooden accents in the interior complements the natural aesthetic, adding warmth and a sense of familiarity, which is essential for users seeking solace. The blend of wood with a robust metal framework ensures structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight quality, allowing the cabin to remain visually grounded yet ethereal. This thoughtful combination of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and a deep respect for nature, serving to engage users on multiple sensory levels.

Among the unique design approaches employed in the Tsunagari Meditation Cabin is the hydraulic system that enables the upper platform to adjust in height and orientation. This feature allows for customizable environments, fostering a unique interaction for each user or group. It transforms the user experience from a static exercise in meditation to one that evolves in real-time, accommodating personal needs and preferences. Such adaptability is rarely seen in typical meditation spaces and speaks to the project's innovative spirit.

The architectural design not only emphasizes the physical space but also delves into the psychological impact of the environment on individual well-being. By prioritizing user experience through verticality, flexibility, and harmony with nature, the design creates a multifaceted approach to meditation that is both practical and profound. This thoughtful architecture aims to enrich the lives of its users, encouraging a deeper engagement with their own mindfulness practices.

The Tsunagari Meditation Cabin stands as a representation of modern architecture that values both personal connection and community engagement. It reflects not just a space for meditation, but a broader understanding of how environments influence mental health and social interactions in urban settings. Users are invited to step into a realm where mindfulness becomes an experience shaped by the architectural context, reflecting the rhythms of the city while providing an escape for personal growth.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas can provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches embraced within the Tsunagari Meditation Cabin.
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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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