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Lotus-Inspired Sanctuary with Stone and Cork Elements

Authors:
Soheil Khosravi kermani, Aylin Askari, Mehrsa Maali
Lotus-Inspired Sanctuary with Stone and Cork Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating elements of a lotus motif and using locally sourced stone and cork, the cabin serves as a meditation and treatment space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while promoting well-being and self-discovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a lotus flower motif embedded in the floor, symbolizing purity.
02
Natural stone walls provide thermal mass and blend into the landscape.
03
The circular, breathable walls enhance air circulation while connecting users to the environment.
04
Seven steps lead to the entrance, representing the main energy centers of the body.
05
Cork flooring is used for its sound-absorbing qualities and comfort in a meditation setting.

The Vale De Moses Meditation/Treatment Cabin is located in the peaceful Vale De Moses, a setting that encourages reflection and wellness. The design focuses on supporting well-being through a connection with nature and elements of yoga. It serves as a retreat where users can engage in a personal journey of growth and understanding.

Conceptual Framework

The cabin draws its inspiration from the root chakra mandala, characterized by the combination of a square and a circle. This shape highlights the importance of being grounded in the physical world while also looking toward spiritual elevation. Visitors approach the cabin by ascending seven steps, each representing a chakra or energy center. This pathway lays the foundation for an intentional experience leading to self-discovery.

Integration of Natural Elements

Natural elements are central to the cabin's design. A stone wall symbolizes the earth, providing strength and stability. Nearby, a water feature adds a soothing sound, creating a calm atmosphere for reflection. The surrounding pine forest introduces sunlight and fresh air, enhancing the space’s peacefulness. These elements work together to help users feel connected to both nature and themselves.

Layered Composition

The structure is designed with layers that represent the five Koshas, or sheaths, in yogic philosophy. The outermost layer reflects the Annamaya Kosha, known as the physical sheath, and is constructed with stone walls that offer both durability and visual interest. Inside, the circular walls represent the Pranamaya Kosha, facilitating airflow and natural light to create an inviting environment.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is vital to the cabin's design, evident in the use of renewable energy solutions. Solar panels installed on the roof provide electricity, while a solar water heating system conserves resources. The careful selection of materials, such as stone for structure and cork for flooring, emphasizes durability and user comfort.

At the center of the cabin, a lotus flower design is embedded in the floor, symbolizing purity and beauty that arise from challenges. This detail encapsulates the essence of the space as a sanctuary for personal growth and tranquility.

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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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