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Natural Bamboo Integration in a Timber Meditative Retreat

Author:
Jonathan Choe
Natural Bamboo Integration in a Timber Meditative Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with timber logs and hollow bamboo, the pavilion integrates seamlessly into the woodland environment, providing a flexible space for meditation and community activities while enhancing local biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using hollow bamboo to enhance local biodiversity.
02
Features transparent pivot doors that provide 360-degree views of the forest.
03
Integrates existing grassy areas to preserve local wildlife habitats.
04
Anchors functional elements like a custom altar facing the northern sun.
05
Utilizes steel ground screws to minimize soil disturbance during construction.

The Nest Pavilion is positioned in a quiet woodland clearing in New Zealand, designed to improve natural habitats while providing a space for meditation and reflection. The project focuses on creating a multipurpose open-plan area at the Earth Energies Sanctuary. It emphasizes a friendly relationship with the environment. The pavilion functions as a calm gathering place for visitors and supports ecological principles, encouraging a stronger connection between people and nature.

Structural Design
The building features a timber log-framed structure that provides an uncomplicated open layout, suitable for guided meditations and personal reflection. This design promotes a peaceful atmosphere while ensuring adaptability for a range of activities. The structure carefully integrates with the surrounding landscape, inviting visitors to experience the natural beauty of the site.



Transparency and Connection
A key aspect of the design is the use of transparent pivot doors, which allow for wide views of the forest. These doors can be opened fully in pleasant weather, making the indoor space feel connected to the outdoor environment. When the weather turns, the pavilion can be closed off to maintain a comfortable atmosphere, while still letting visitors engage with the scenery outside.



Biodiversity Considerations
Biodiversity plays an important role in the design. The pavilion preserves the existing grassy area beneath it, allowing the natural habitat to remain for local animals, like birds and frogs. The use of hollow bamboo and stacked timbers creates a structure that resembles a nest. This approach not only supports the building but also provides habitats for insects and bees, boosting the ecological value of the area.



Material Utilization
Materials chosen for the construction reflect a commitment to sustainability. The main structural component is made from durable timber logs, which ensures longevity. The hollow bamboo added to the design enhances the overall look while also supporting ecological goals. Additionally, the foundation consists of steel ground screws, which minimize soil disturbance and help to keep the landscape intact.

The design culminates in a thoughtful blend of building and nature, creating a tranquil space that balances functional needs with a focus on the environment.

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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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