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Meditative Space with Metal Grid and Rainwater System

Authors:
Lisa Montanari, Stefano Camedda
Meditative Space with Metal Grid and Rainwater System

Project in-detail

With integrated rainwater management and a pedestrian-friendly metal grid, the design creates a meditative living space that emphasizes mindfulness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrated rainwater system supports sustainable water management.
02
Pedestrian pathways enhance accessibility and connection to the landscape.
03
Origami techniques promote mindfulness through practical folding activities.
04
Metal grid flooring preserves the natural terrain underneath.
05
Design emphasizes fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Origami Nesting Box is a well-planned structure that combines principles of Yoga with everyday living. Located in a natural setting, it promotes mindfulness and well-being through its design and function. It serves not only as a residence but also as a space for meditation, focusing on enhancing physical and mental clarity.

Design Concept

The design focuses on connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging a close relationship with nature. The layout permits easy movement throughout, allowing people to interact with the building and the landscape at the same time. Incorporating Origami techniques adds a unique aspect, allowing occupants to participate in meditative folding. This provides a way to achieve states of concentration and peace.

Landscape Integration

Incorporating the landscape design involves existing pathways complemented by new pedestrian routes. These paths facilitate movement while keeping the natural beauty of the area intact. A metal grid allows for safe passage and enhances the connection between the structure and its environment. This approach makes it easy for users to explore the outdoors around the building.

Sustainability Features

A significant part of the design focuses on managing water use efficiently. A rainwater collection system collects water from the roof and directs it through gutters and filters into storage tanks. This system connects to an Imhoff tank and reed bed to handle waste properly. Such features highlight the project's commitment to responsible water management and environmental care.

Interior Layout

Inside, the layout includes distinct areas for crucial living activities, such as wardrobes, bathrooms, and spaces for relaxation. This design promotes comfort and functionality while adding places for quiet reflection. The careful arrangement of these spaces supports a healthy lifestyle, fostering a strong connection to nature and personal well-being.

Large windows offer natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. This design feature brings the outdoors inside, enhancing the feeling of being in touch with nature.

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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
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