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Meditative Space Enclosed Within Greenery and Natural Light

Authors:
Nur Ayalp, Cihat Caglar
Meditative Space Enclosed Within Greenery and Natural Light

Project in-detail

A permeable structure with strategic openings invites nature and natural light into a compact space designed for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique tea drying rank incorporated into the design.
02
Strategic openings facilitate enhanced air circulation and natural light.
03
Vertical columns resemble tree trunks, reinforcing nature integration.
04
Mosquito-proof terrace enhances outdoor usability.
05
Compact layout effectively combines functionality and meditation space.

Cocoon is an architectural design that focuses on bringing nature into a building. It aims to create a space where the forest's presence is felt inside. The setting is infused with natural elements that interact with the structure, enhancing the overall experience for the occupants. The concept emphasizes an openness to the environment, allowing light, sound, and smells from the surroundings to play a vital role in the daily lives of those who enter.

Conceptual Framework

The design is based on the idea of a cocoon, representing a protected space within a larger natural context. The form of the structure varies in height and width, creating a balance that resonates with the forest around it. Vertical columns evoke tree trunks, reinforcing the connection between the built environment and the natural world. This blend of architectural form and natural imagery encourages a sense of harmony and belonging.

Structural Integration

Openings throughout the structure play an important role by allowing natural light to filter inside. These gaps also encourage air circulation, making the interior more comfortable. This thoughtful design enhances not just the appearance of the building but also contributes to an inviting atmosphere that encourages interaction with nature.

Functional Features

Functional spaces are seamlessly incorporated into the design. A tea drying rank reflects local traditions, adding a practical aspect to the overall experience. The exploded axonometric view provides clarity about how different parts of the building relate to each other. Skylights and meditation spaces invite moments of calm, striking a balance between function and mindfulness.

Utility and Comfort

Elements such as a mosquito-proof terrace, flue skylight, and fireplace are included to ensure comfort and usability. Windows help connect the interior with the outside world, framing views of nature. The interior spans a total area of 15 m², with an additional terrace of 3.75 m², showcasing a space that is both small and practical.

Cocoon illustrates how architecture can foster a close relationship with nature. The design allows light to enter through its openings, creating a varied atmosphere that changes throughout the day.

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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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