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Meditation Retreat Featuring Locally Sourced Stone and Cross-Laminated Timber Construction

Authors:
Megan Burwinkel, David Burwinkel
Meditation Retreat Featuring Locally Sourced Stone and Cross-Laminated Timber Construction

Project in-detail

Nestled in the tranquil Latvian countryside, this meditation retreat masterfully combines locally sourced stone and cross-laminated timber to create a serene environment that seamlessly integrates with nature while offering thoughtfully designed spaces for reflection and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The retreat incorporates locally sourced stone, enhancing its connection to the surrounding landscape and minimizing environmental impact.
02
Individual meditation huts are designed to allow for panoramic views, promoting a sense of openness and connection with nature.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their structural efficiency, contributing to both the building's durability and aesthetic warmth.
04
The exterior features charred wooden shingles, a traditional Japanese technique known as Shou Sugi Ban, which enhances weather resistance while offering a unique visual texture.
05
The bent A-frame design not only creates an iconic silhouette but also optimizes interior space for natural light and ventilation, enhancing the overall user experience.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural endeavor designed to serve as a sanctuary for mindfulness and introspection. Positioned in the serene Latvian countryside, this project not only encapsulates the essence of contemplation but also embodies a thoughtful integration of local materials and sustainable practices. At its core, the camp represents a space where individuals can connect deeply with nature while engaging in meditative activities.

The architecture of the Stone Barn is meticulously crafted to facilitate various functions essential for a retreat setting. Central to its design are community-oriented spaces that promote interaction among guests, such as a communal dining area and a flexible multi-purpose hall that can accommodate yoga sessions, workshops, and retreats. These areas are designed to foster a sense of belonging, encouraging visitors to share experiences and support one another on their paths to relaxation and mindfulness.

Distinctive to this architectural project is the harmonious interplay of solid and fluid forms, represented by the juxtaposition of the substantial stone structure against the open, flowing landscapes surrounding it. The use of locally sourced stone not only grounds the building within its geographical context but also emphasizes durability and permanence, reflecting the long-lasting impact that nature offers. Complementing this, wood is employed extensively for structural components, affording warmth and a tactile quality that enhances the overall visitor experience. Smooth concrete surfaces are interspersed within communal areas, providing a modern aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with the natural materials, and allowing for clean lines and minimalist design.

A significant aspect of the camp’s design is the dedicated meditation huts, which provide private retreats for guests. These huts feature large windows that frame picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, enabling occupants to absorb the tranquil essence of their environment while engaging in personal reflection. The careful arrangement of these huts ensures both privacy and accessibility, allowing users to retreat from the communal spaces when desired while still feeling part of the larger community.

Water plays a crucial role in the architectural narrative of the Stone Barn. Attention to the management of natural water features enhances both aesthetics and sustainability, creating a peaceful ambiance and fostering a connection to the elements. The design encourages users to experience the calming sound of water, which complements meditation practices and contributes to the overall sense of tranquility.

The circulation within the camp is intuitively planned, guiding guests through various spaces while maintaining openness. Soft transitions marked by archways or wide corridors allow for exploration without confusion, reinforcing the idea of flow—an essential theme in both meditation and organic design. Thoughtful landscaping surrounding the building integrates natural pathways, further inviting guests to immerse themselves in the rich environment.

In essence, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is emblematic of a modern approach to retreat architecture that prioritizes sustainability, community interaction, and the importance of nature in fostering well-being. Its unique design approaches—such as the integration of substantial natural materials with contemporary elements, the interaction of indoor and outdoor spaces, and the thoughtful planning of communal and private areas—distinguish this project as more than just a building; it becomes a holistic experience.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp, it is recommended to explore the project presentation for more details, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that exemplify the thoughtfulness ingrained in each aspect of this tranquil retreat.
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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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