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Meditative Sanctuary with Rikyu Gray and Polycarbonate Windows

Authors:
Haowei Pan, Yu Gong, Zirui Jiang
Meditative Sanctuary with Rikyu Gray and Polycarbonate Windows

Project in-detail

Constructed with Rikyu gray and polycarbonate windows, the meditation cabin offers a tranquil retreat within Tokyo's urban landscape, designed to facilitate various forms of meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rikyu gray color creates a calming atmosphere within the cabin.
02
Polycarbonate windows enhance natural light while preserving privacy.
03
Design accommodates walking, sitting, standing, and lying meditation practices.
04
Compact dimensions optimize integration into Tokyo’s narrow streets.
05
Practical features reduce distractions to support focused meditation.

The meditation cabin is designed to create a peaceful space for self-reflection within the busy urban landscape of Tokyo. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Japanese Torii gate, the structure serves as a transition between the outside world and a serene environment. This design concept shapes not only the spatial organization but also the materials used and its place in the dense city fabric.

Spatial Configuration

The layout of the cabin is based on classical meditation practices, including walking, sitting, standing, and lying down. Each of these activities finds its place within the compact design, allowing users to engage in meditation in different ways. This thoughtful approach accommodates various needs while maximizing the limited space available.

Material Considerations

Materials play a key role in shaping the experience within the cabin. Inside, Rikyu gray creates a calming atmosphere, promoting clarity and focus. The design includes traditional Japanese windows that can be opened, allowing fresh air and natural light to enter the space. Polycarbonate elements around the meditation area provide privacy and a sense of intimacy while still letting light filter through.

Integration with Urban Context

Set in one of the world's most populated cities, the cabin must harmonize with its surroundings. The dimensions are carefully planned to fit into narrow streets and existing infrastructure, ensuring it does not disrupt the flow of the city. This consideration reflects an understanding of how architecture can exist alongside urban life.

Design Details

Practical features such as hooks and electronic storage boxes help minimize distractions, making it easier for individuals to focus during meditation. These elements are integrated into the design to enhance the user experience, supporting the central aim of the cabin. The overall result is a structure that emphasizes simplicity and clarity, providing a genuine sanctuary for meditation amid the complexities of city life.

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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

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