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Meditation Pyramid Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Natural Water Filtration System

Authors:
ALISHA GUPTA, MOHIT BHORIA, Naina Krishan
Meditation Pyramid Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Natural Water Filtration System

Project in-detail

A meditation pyramid constructed from cross-laminated timber integrates a natural water filtration system and curved pathways to create a serene therapeutic environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation pyramid design enhances spatial acoustics for improved mindfulness.
02
Water filtration system utilizes collected rainwater for sustainable use.
03
Curved pathways integrate seamlessly with the natural topography of the site.
04
Flexible layouts accommodate diverse therapeutic programs and activities.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide durability while enhancing aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview

The design project is located in a geographical area chosen for its natural landscape, with an emphasis on creating an environment that supports well-being. The conceptual framework is rooted in phenomenology, focusing on the engagement of the five senses to facilitate healing and reduce stress. The intention is to establish a therapeutic environment that harmonizes architecture with its natural context.

### Spatial Strategy and Zoning

The site organization is thoughtfully structured to enhance functionality and adhere to themes of wellness and treatment. Key components of the layout include a welcoming entrance portal that guides visitors into the therapeutic space, a Diet and Nutrition Center dedicated to promoting healthy living through culinary activities, and accommodation for staff alongside private residences that encourage relaxation and connection with the landscape. Dedicated areas such as the Meditation Pyramid and Sacred Sites foster introspection and spiritual engagement. The use of natural pathways, characterized by curved lines, reflects an organic flow of movement that aligns with the site's topography.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a diverse range of materials selected for their functional and aesthetic properties. Timber provides warmth and creates a natural bond with the surroundings, while glass facilitates natural light, enhancing visual connections between interior and exterior spaces. Stone elements resonate with the local geology, reinforcing contextual relevance, and steel is utilized for structural support, maintaining aesthetic integrity. The design includes a Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) approach, optimizing solar energy through strategic orientation and passive solar heating techniques. An artificial pond collects rainwater, which is processed through a three-tiered filtration system for culinary use, embodying resource conservation and sustainability practices.

Incorporating outdoor spaces is crucial for enhancing the user experience and fostering a stronger connection to nature, essential for mental health. These design choices collectively promote a holistic architectural approach that intertwines physical space with psychological and emotional well-being.

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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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