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Hyperboloid Structure Embracing Recycled Wood for Meditative Reflection

Authors:
Lena Larionova, Kelly Boston, Lewin Wertheimer
Hyperboloid Structure Embracing Recycled Wood for Meditative Reflection
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The use of a hyperboloid structure with recycled wood creates a unique meditative space that fosters deep reflection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates a hyperboloid shape for enhanced structural stability.
02
Recycled wooden veneer scraps are used to cover the cabin frame, promoting sustainability.
03
Interior spaces are designed to facilitate meditation and reflection zones.
04
The summer garden window blurs the lines between inside and outside spaces.
05
Wood serves as the primary material, rooted in Latvia's traditional building practices.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabin is set in a calm natural environment, designed for quiet reflection and meditation. It integrates ideas from meditative practices with an exploration of geometric forms. The design follows the principles of Vipassana, which promotes seeing things as they truly are. This approach encourages visitors to connect with both their inner selves and the nature surrounding them.

Geometry and Structure

The design features circular and hyperboloid shapes, which provide efficient structural benefits. The hyperboloid base contributes to stability, while the use of circular forms ties back to historical ideas of divinity, commonly found in ancient architecture. The cabin is built using straight wooden beams instead of curved ones. This choice enhances clarity in the structure and supports its functional purpose.

Materiality and Sustainability

The primary building material is wood, which is known as the oldest construction material in Latvia. The design includes recycled wooden veneer scraps to cover the cabin's frame, extending the life cycle of the material. This aspect highlights a dedication to sustainability, reflecting current ecological practices in building design.

Spatial Relationships

One of the notable features of the cabin is its blurred boundaries between inside and outside. The summer garden window illustrates this interplay, shifting between an enclosed area and an open space. This allows for a smooth interaction with the landscape, encouraging a deeper engagement and fostering moments of contemplation.

Meditative Zones

Inside, the layout carefully organizes areas for meditation and reflection. Each zone is designed to support focused activities while enhancing the experience of those within the space. The arrangement promotes an easy flow from one area to another. This design approach aligns with the values of Vipassana and invites individuals to connect with both their thoughts and the nature around them.

Light filters through the cabin, creating inviting spaces that encourage quiet moments. The combination of geometric forms and sustainable materials forms an atmosphere conducive to mindfulness, allowing each visitor to experience tranquility and a deeper connection to their surroundings.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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