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Natural Stone Walls and Light Wood Structure Define a Tranquil Space for Reflection and Tea Preparation

Authors:
Colin Berg, Philippe Le Quellec
Natural Stone Walls and Light Wood Structure Define a Tranquil Space for Reflection and Tea Preparation
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Heavy stone walls and a light wood structure create a harmonious environment that facilitates tea preparation and meditation, emphasizing a deep connection to nature and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Heavy natural stone walls provide thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
Light wood structure contrasts with stone, creating a sense of openness.
03
Direct access to a courtyard promotes integration with the outdoor environment.
04
Unique portals connect interior spaces with surrounding landscapes.
05
Designed to encourage both social interaction and quiet meditation.

The architectural design focuses on blending daily activities with moments of quiet reflection. Set in a natural landscape, it serves as a venue for tea preparation and meditation. The use of sturdy stone walls provides a strong foundation for the building while a lighter wood structure adds a sense of calmness. This design draws inspiration from Zen philosophy, particularly the term *makyō*, which means "ghost cave."

Building and Material Composition
The project features stone walls that create supportive spaces. This choice of material not only adds stability but also connects the structure to its surroundings, giving a grounded feel to the experience. The lighter wood structure wraps around the stone, facilitating a thoughtful relationship between the active and tranquil areas of the design, and encouraging interaction with the environment outside.

Spatial Organization
Inside, the layout encourages easy movement between areas designated for social engagement and quiet contemplation. Different zones are clearly separated yet maintain a sense of connection, allowing individuals to transition smoothly from the tea-making space to the meditation room. Carefully designed portals enhance visibility and create openness, inviting nature into the interior spaces.

Light and Atmosphere
Light has a significant impact on the overall experience in the building. Openings are designed to manage the flow of light, establishing a play between shadows and brightness. The walls, painted white, reflect daylight throughout the interior and help dissolve the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas. This emphasis on natural light creates an environment that prioritizes sensory experiences and fosters a connection with nature.

Outdoor Integration
Direct access from the activity space to a courtyard is a key feature of the design. This outdoor area extends living and gathering spaces, particularly suitable for the warmer months. The courtyard serves as a pathway to Bezdibene Lake, linking the structure to the surrounding natural environment. Additionally, a private terrace at the top of a heavy steel staircase offers a quieter retreat, enhancing the diverse experiences available within the setting.

The combination of stone, wood, and light leads to a design that welcomes interaction and encourages introspection, creating a strong bond with the natural landscape evident in the way sunlight shifts across the interiors 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

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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