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Panoramic Views and Spray Foam Insulation in Compact Forest Retreats

Author:
Christian Oanda
Panoramic Views and Spray Foam Insulation in Compact Forest Retreats

Project in-detail

Constructed with parabolic columns and sustainable wood paneling, the design integrates panoramic views and a raised platform, offering a compact retreat that prioritizes silent meditation in the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with parabolic columns that enhance stability and design aesthetics.
02
Double-glazed glass windows maximize natural light while maintaining thermal efficiency.
03
Vertical bi-fold doors create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
04
Spray foam insulation ensures effective thermal performance and energy efficiency.
05
Raised platform design enhances the meditation experience with unobstructed forest views.

The Silent Meditation Cabins are designed as peaceful retreats in the forests of Latvia. They provide short-stay accommodation aimed at facilitating silent meditation. This architectural work aims to create a space where visitors can escape the noise of city life and connect with nature. The overall concept is centered around simplicity and functionality, ensuring that each cabin serves as a place of calm and reflection while offering essential amenities.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout includes a variety of multi-functional spaces that are both practical and supportive of meditation practices. Each cabin features a meditation floor, a kitchenette, and a bunk bed positioned above a bathroom and a water tank. This compact design allows for efficient use of space while maintaining comfort, creating an environment where visitors can relax and focus on their meditation.

Visual Integration

Panoramic views form an essential part of the design, as the cabins are oriented to take full advantage of the surrounding forest. This thoughtful consideration helps set a calming atmosphere, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in nature. By fostering a connection with the landscape, the cabins enhance the overall experience of peace and tranquility.

Structural Design

The cabins utilize a wood frame structure characterized by bridle joints that link parabolic vertical columns to joists. This method ensures durability while maintaining a compact form. Large double-glazed windows are installed to illuminate the spaces with natural light and maintain thermal comfort throughout the seasons. Wood paneling on the walls complements the natural setting, reinforcing the connection to the forest.

Transition to Nature

At the rear, the cabins are designed with a raised platform that extends from the interior spaces and features vertical bi-fold doors. These doors facilitate easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas, allowing daily activities to flow naturally into the surrounding landscape. This design encourages a deeper engagement with nature, enhancing the experience of meditation and reflection in an environment that supports relaxation and inner peace.

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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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