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Leaf-Like Roof and Glass Walls Create a Serene Nature Retreat

Author:
Kim Daejun
Leaf-Like Roof and Glass Walls Create a Serene Nature Retreat

Project in-detail

The roof, designed to resemble overlapping leaves, and extensive glass walls create a harmonized connection to nature in a cabin dedicated to meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Roof design mimics layered leaves to enhance natural aesthetics.
02
Extensive glass walls offer unobstructed forest views.
03
Columns arranged in varying directions promote fluid movement.
04
Wood materials contribute to environmental harmony and sustainability.
05
Interior layout prioritizes meditation and focused relaxation.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is designed to fit comfortably within its natural surroundings, serving as a peaceful space for meditation and relaxation. Located in an open landscape, the cabin emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature. The design concept aims for openness and harmony, using elements that reflect the beauty of the environment.

Form and Structure

The cabin’s shape features various columns and a roof that resembles leaves stacked together. This design creates a feeling of openness while keeping a strong link to the landscape. The roof follows the site’s contours, effectively providing shade and protection from sunlight. This thoughtful approach enhances comfort for those using the space.

Spatial Connection

Large glass walls are a key part of the design, allowing for uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest. This choice creates a strong link between the inside and outside. When the glass walls are opened, they remove the boundaries of the cabin, making it feel more spacious and further connecting it to the natural environment.

Materiality

The materials chosen for the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin reflect a commitment to being in tune with nature. Important elements include wood roof panels, waterproofing sheets, and oriented strand board (OSB) that provide structural support. These materials not only serve practical functions but also help the cabin blend into its setting.

The high eaves and sloped roofs contribute both to the building's visual appeal and its integration into the landscape, encouraging a focus on mindfulness within a calm outdoor space.

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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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