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Pentagon-Shaped Retreat Constructed with Recycled Wood Shingles and Expanded Cork Insulation

Authors:
Justyna Kościółek, Katarzyna Skibińska
Pentagon-Shaped Retreat Constructed with Recycled Wood Shingles and Expanded Cork Insulation

Project in-detail

Constructed from recycled wood shingles and expanded cork, this pentagon-shaped retreat offers a serene haven for meditation within a tranquil forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled wood shingles to enhance sustainability and environmental integration.
02
Incorporates expanded cork insulation for improved thermal efficiency and eco-friendliness.
03
Features a distinctive pentagon shape that symbolizes the five elements of the design philosophy.
04
Large openings and strategically placed windows create a seamless connection with the surrounding forest.
05
Zones within the cabins promote a natural flow between communal and private areas for meditation.
The Mimesis Meditation Cabins project represents a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between architecture and nature, aimed at providing spaces for contemplation and introspection. Nestled within a tranquil wooded area, the cabins embody a design ethos that emphasizes harmony, mindfulness, and sustainability. This architectural initiative serves as a refuge for individuals seeking to disengage from the demands of modern life, offering a dedicated environment for meditation and self-discovery.

The project incorporates a unique architectural form, with each cabin designed as a geometric pentagon. This shape is not merely aesthetic; it symbolizes the five essential elements—Ether, Water, Air, Fire, and Earth—that underpin the design philosophy. By guiding users through experiences that engage these elemental themes, the Mimesis Meditation Cabins create a holistic environment conducive to personal reflection. Spatially, the cabins are organized into distinct zones that promote a seamless flow from communal areas for social interaction to private spaces for deep contemplation. This intentional zoning enhances the overall user experience, ensuring that each aspect of the cabin supports its meditative purpose.

Material choice plays a crucial role in the project, with sustainability as a guiding principle. The design utilizes recycled wood shingles for the roofs, conveying an aesthetic that blends with the surrounding environment while minimizing ecological impact. Expanded cork is employed for insulation, both for its environmental viability and thermal efficiency, providing comfort throughout various seasons. Plywood is used for flooring and interior walls, contributing warmth to the overall design. In addition, clay moss is integrated into the interior spaces, linking users more closely to the earth, while glulam timber forms the structural framework of the cabins, demonstrating a commitment to durable yet eco-friendly materials.

What sets this project apart are its unique design approaches that enhance the sensory experience of meditation. The integration of large openings and strategically placed windows encourages a strong connection between the indoor spaces and the natural landscape. This relationship allows users to engage with the sounds of the environment, the textures of natural materials, and even the fragrances from nearby flora, enriching the meditative experience. Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable practices such as photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems underlines the project’s commitment to a green approach to architecture.

The Mimesis Meditation Cabins are more than just physical structures; they embody a philosophy of well-being, encouraging users to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. The project reflects a contemporary understanding of the role architecture can play in enhancing mental and emotional health. The careful consideration of design elements ensures that each cabin serves as a sanctuary, making it an ideal location for meditation and mindfulness practices.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that contribute to the Mimesis Meditation Cabins, there is much to explore. The thoughtful architectural ideas behind this project invite further examination and appreciation of how design can create meaningful spaces for reflection and connection with nature.
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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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