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Natural Stone And Expansive Glass Define A Sustainable Meditation Retreat In The Woods

Authors:
Maxim Gabai, Dietmar Hahn
Natural Stone And Expansive Glass Define A Sustainable Meditation Retreat In The Woods

Project in-detail

Crafted from natural stone and timber, the meditation retreat seamlessly integrates expansive glass elements to foster a serene environment for self-reflection within a sheltered woodland setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Designed with expansive glass walls to maximize natural light and views of the forest.
03
Incorporates innovative cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes a dynamic spatial experience.
05
Strategically located pathways minimize site disturbance while promoting natural irrigation.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project designed to facilitate meditation and self-reflection within a natural setting. Located in a wooded area, the project emphasizes a deep integration with its environment while promoting a minimalist approach to its design. The camp comprises multiple structures that serve various functions—primarily a meditation center, individual sleeping huts, and communal facilities—arranged to create a cohesive and tranquil retreat.

Site Organization and Functionality

The project site is organized through careful planning to enhance accessibility and interaction with the landscape. The central meditation hall is the focal point, designed with expansive windows to encourage a connection with the outdoors. Surrounding this hall are individual huts that function as private accommodation, allowing visitors to retreat while still being part of a larger community. Additional facilities, including a cafeteria and sauna, are strategically placed near the entrance to support both guests and daily operations.

Notable Design Approaches

A distinctive aspect of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is its material selection, which prioritizes sustainability and environmental harmony. The use of concrete provides structural durability, while the application of natural wood and stone enhances the aesthetic and tactile connection to nature. Natural light is maximized through large glass panels, creating bright, inviting spaces that encourage contemplation.

The project successfully balances communal and solitary experiences. Shared spaces foster interaction and communal activities, while private huts allow for solitude and self-reflection. This duality is designed to accommodate varying visitor preferences—whether they seek companionship or personal retreat.

Integration with Nature

The architectural design incorporates a thoughtful layout that minimizes disruption to the existing landscape, emphasizing low-impact construction techniques. Pathways constructed from natural materials connect different areas of the camp, creating a seamless transition between built and natural environments. The integration of covered outdoor spaces, situated adjacent to the meditation hall, invites visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape, further enhancing the overall experience.

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp exemplifies a well-considered architectural approach that caters to the needs of meditation practitioners within a serene environment. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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