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Meditation Retreat Featuring Straw Bale Construction and Thatched Rooftops in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Rita Martins, Inês Matos
Meditation Retreat Featuring Straw Bale Construction and Thatched Rooftops in a Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Nestled in the serene Latvian woods, this meditation retreat seamlessly blends sustainable straw bale construction with traditional thatched roofing, creating a tranquil space that invites personal reflection while honoring the surrounding natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The retreat utilizes locally sourced straw bales for insulation, minimizing its environmental impact while showcasing regional agricultural resources.
02
Each cabin features a thatched roof made from indigenous reeds, enhancing aesthetic integration with the natural surroundings and promoting biodiversity.
03
The design includes a unique bent A-frame structure, allowing for efficient use of space while providing a distinct silhouette against the forest backdrop.
04
Passive solar design techniques optimize natural light and warmth, reducing energy consumption and enhancing the comfort of the interior spaces.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the architecture, enabling sustainable water management practices that support the cabins' self-sufficiency.
The Ozolini Meditation Cabins project represents a thoughtful response to the growing need for spaces that support personal reflection and connection with nature. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Vidzeme region in northeastern Latvia, this architectural endeavor emphasizes sustainability, mindfulness, and the integration of built forms within the natural environment. It serves as a retreat for individuals seeking solace and an opportunity to engage in meditation practices, ultimately aiming to cultivate a deeper awareness of oneself and the surrounding world.

The design of the cabins showcases a contemporary interpretation of traditional Latvian agricultural aesthetics. The distinct architectural form features an arched roof, reminiscent of local barn structures, while filling the space with natural light and enhancing its connection to the environment. This thoughtful design not only aligns with the functional requirements of a retreat but also harmonizes with the picturesque forested backdrop, ensuring that the cabins feel like a natural extension of the landscape.

The primary function of the Ozolini Meditation Cabins is to provide tranquil spaces for meditation and self-discovery. Each cabin is thoughtfully arranged to facilitate both individual reflection and communal interaction. The interior layout includes designated areas for meditation, sleeping, and communal gatherings, allowing visitors to engage with the space in various ways. By providing distinct functional zones, the design reflects an understanding of the diverse needs of users and encourages a balance between solitude and social connectivity.

Sustainability is a core principle underpinning the design and construction of the cabins. The project employs a range of eco-friendly materials, including straw bales for insulation, which not only provide thermal comfort but also exemplify an innovative approach to resource efficiency. Timber finishes and plywood elements are utilized throughout the interiors, promoting a sense of warmth and ease. Additionally, the roofs are thatched with locally sourced reeds, enhancing the building’s integration with its surroundings while providing effective weather protection.

Unique design approaches within the Ozolini Meditation Cabins also encompass effective water and energy management strategies. Rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated, allowing the cabins to utilize natural resources effectively and reduce their ecological footprint. Passive solar design principles are employed by maximizing window placements, ensuring that the cabins harness natural light while maintaining comfortable indoor conditions year-round. This careful attention to sustainable practices enhances the cabins' functionality while promoting a sense of responsibility toward the environment.

The project also emphasizes a relationship with nature that goes beyond the physical structure. The site design encourages interaction with the natural landscape, allowing users to engage in outdoor meditation and contemplation practices. Paths are thoughtfully integrated into the surroundings, offering opportunities for exploration and reflection in an inspiring setting.

The Ozolini Meditation Cabins stand as a model for how architecture can foster personal well-being and environmental care through thoughtful design. Each element of the project – from its form and materials to its sustainable systems – contributes to a cohesive experience that invites guests to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of this intricate project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will offer deeper insights into the unique ideas that inform this thoughtful retreat. Exploring these elements will enhance appreciation for the craftsmanship and intentional approaches that make the Ozolini Meditation Cabins a noteworthy example of contemporary architecture aligned with ecological mindfulness.
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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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