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Natural Filtration and Larch Cabins Designed for Peaceful Reflection in the Forest

Authors:
Kinga Murawska, Weronika Walasz, Magdalena Gabrysiak-dzielicka
Natural Filtration and Larch Cabins Designed for Peaceful Reflection in the Forest

Project in-detail

Crafted from larch and designed with a triangular silhouette, these cabins incorporate a natural water filtration system, providing a serene retreat for meditation and reflection amidst the tranquil forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are constructed using sustainably sourced larch wood, enhancing their integration into the natural environment.
02
A natural water filtration system purifies collected rainwater, promoting sustainability and ecological mindfulness.
03
The distinct bent A-frame design maximizes vertical space while echoing the surrounding forest's silhouette.
04
Each cabin features a central fire pit, designed for communal gatherings and reflective solitude.
05
The project emphasizes biophilic design principles, fostering a deep connection between occupants and the natural landscape.
The project featuring the Silent Meditation Forest Cabins is a thoughtfully designed architectural endeavor that embodies simplicity and harmony with nature. Set in a serene forest environment, these cabins serve as retreats for individuals seeking tranquility and connection to the natural world. The overarching concept emphasizes the flow of water as a central theme, symbolizing life cycles and the interaction between occupants and their surroundings. This thoughtful integration of nature and architecture fosters a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

Functionally, the cabins are designed to facilitate meditation, personal reflection, and communal gatherings. Each structure is carefully positioned to maximize privacy while simultaneously allowing for communal spaces that encourage social interaction when desired. The central fire pit serves as a gathering place, inviting occupants to come together around a shared experience. This blend of solitude and community shapes the unique living experience offered by the cabins, catering to various needs for relaxation and reconnection.

A standout feature of the project is its architectural form, characterized by a distinctive triangular roof that points upward, resembling the surrounding trees. This design not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the cabins but also provides practical benefits, such as efficient rainwater drainage. The roofs are constructed with sustainability in mind, capturing rainwater that is then funneled into a natural filtration system. This aspect of the design encourages responsible water management and highlights the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The materiality of the Silent Meditation Forest Cabins is another important consideration. The primary use of larch wood gives the cabins a warm, organic feel that resonates with the forest environment, fostering a sense of peace and grounding. The choice of concrete for the fire pit and foundational elements provides durability, while the integration of glass elements enhances transparency and light within the space. This combination of materials invites occupants to engage with their surroundings, as views of the forest landscape are framed beautifully within the architectural design.

Unique design approaches in this architectural project include the intentional focus on biophilic principles, creating a direct relationship between the built environment and nature. This approach is not merely aesthetic; it is functional and experiential, enhancing the well-being of occupants. The water circulation system promotes ecological mindfulness, allowing users to appreciate the natural systems at work around them. By integrating sustainable practices into both the design and function, the project stands as a model for contemporary architecture focused on environmental consciousness.

The layout of the cabins exemplifies a balance between individual solitude and communal space, further enhancing the user experience. Each cabin's orientation allows for private moments of contemplation, while the shared areas facilitate communal activities, thus appealing to diverse user preferences. This adaptability not only enriches the experience of mediation and reflection but also accommodates various social dynamics.

For those interested in further exploring this architectural project, a detailed examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs is highly encouraged. These elements provide valuable insights into the thoughtful decisions made throughout the design process, showcasing the principles and ideas that underpin the Silent Meditation Forest Cabins. By delving into the project presentation, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how thoughtful architecture can foster a sensitive and respectful interaction with the natural environment.
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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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