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Meditation Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Integrating with Forest Landscape

Author:
Barrett Peterson
Meditation Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Integrating with Forest Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in a tranquil forest, this meditation retreat harmoniously combines cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles to create an elevated space that invites introspection through the interplay of natural light and shadow.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The structure features an innovative oculus that transforms into a sun dial, creating a dynamic relationship between light and space throughout the day.
02
Operable walls crafted from dimensional timber allow for flexible interior configurations, enhancing user interaction with nature.
03
Elevated above the forest floor, the design minimizes ecological disturbance while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
04
A circular fire pit at the center of the retreat encourages communal gatherings, fostering a sense of connection among users.
05
The project utilizes locally sourced materials, promoting sustainability and a strong connection to the regional environment.
The Timberland Cube is an architectural project designed with the intent to harmonize meditation and natural surroundings within a forested landscape. This structure represents a thoughtful intersection between built form and the natural world, emphasizing mindfulness and tranquility. Functionally, it serves as a meditation space that encourages users to engage in self-reflection while remaining deeply connected to the environmental context surrounding it.

The architectural design of the Timberland Cube is based upon a straightforward geometric form characterized by simplicity and utility. Its central feature is a unique oculus that provides natural light, acting as a sun dial and enhancing the encounter between the occupants and the changing qualities of light throughout the day. This feature not only contributes to the aesthetics of the interior but also creates a spiritual connection with the passage of time, inviting users to explore their relationship with nature.

Key components of this project include walls that can be operated and adjusted, which facilitate open-air experiences and enable a dynamic interaction with the environment. The circular fire pit at the center serves as a focal point, promoting community gathering, warmth, and a sense of togetherness among users. The integration of local timber as the primary construction material underscores a commitment to sustainability and a connection to the surrounding forest, allowing the structure to blend seamlessly with its environment.

The Timberland Cube stands out due to its emphasis on natural materials, selected for their tactile qualities and visual warmth. The use of local timber for structural and aesthetic purposes not only supports regional economies but also reduces the ecological footprint of the project. Complementing this, the raised design minimizes ground disturbance, further enhancing its environmental sensitivity. The intentional design choices foster a connection to sensory experiences, where aspects of light, texture, and sound are skillfully incorporated to engage occupants.

Unique design approaches evident in the Timberland Cube include a focus on interaction with light and nature. As sunlight filters through the oculus and operable walls, the interior space transforms with shifting shadows throughout the day. This responsive environment allows for a meditative experience that changes in parallel with the movements of the sun, creating a living dialogue between the structure and the elements.

Moreover, the design of the Timberland Cube prioritizes ventilation and openness, inviting fresh air into the space and enhancing the sensory experience of occupants. The simple yet effective layout fosters a retreat for individuals or small groups, where they can explore inner tranquility without the distractions of everyday life. This thoughtful design offers a balance of seclusion and connectedness, embodying the essence of mindfulness in architectural form.

For those interested in exploring this architectural project further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the unique ideas that shape this meditation space. Engaging with the details of the Timberland Cube allows for a more comprehensive understanding of its intentions and the ways it integrates architecture with the natural landscape.
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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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