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Perforated Cabin Emphasizing Modular Design for Contemplation

Author:
Claudio c. Araya arias
Perforated Cabin Emphasizing Modular Design for Contemplation

Project in-detail

A perforated and modular cabin integrates cross-ventilation and natural light to create an unobtrusive space for meditation, fostering a deep connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated exterior enhances natural light and airflow.
02
Modular design allows for easy disassembly and reconfiguration.
03
Cabin maintains a minimal footprint to preserve the landscape.
04
Interior layout prioritizes 80% open space for meditation activities.
05
Cement anchors provide structural stability while minimizing ground impact.

The design features a contemplative cabin located in a natural setting, intended to provide a quiet space for meditation and personal reflection. It disrupts the usual connection to the surrounding physical environment, allowing for a deeper experience of isolation and introspection. The overall concept combines elements of temporality and flexibility, creating a space that responds to its surroundings while serving the needs of its users effectively.

Design Concept

The cabin is designed as a temporary shelter, similar to a four-season tent. This characteristic allows it to be dismantled and reconfigured into reusable modules. Adapting to ecological principles, the design promotes a connection to the environment while ensuring a functional space for its occupants.

Materiality and Form

One notable element is the perforated and transparent exterior, composed of rigid elements that enable the entry of natural light and solar energy. This feature fosters a connection between the interior space and the outdoor landscape, giving it an open feel. Openings are carefully positioned to face south, east, and west, which optimizes light and temperature regulation, resulting in a comfortable interior.

Spatial Configuration

Inside the cabin, the layout prioritizes openness. A programmatic bar organizes areas for furniture and services while allowing 80% of the ground to remain open. This design choice helps create a calm atmosphere ideal for meditation. It eliminates unnecessary walls, offering a flow that encourages users to engage fully with the space.

Structural Integrity

The cabin’s roof is supported by cement anchors, which serve as the only points of contact with the ground. This design approach keeps the structural footprint minimal, enabling the natural landscape to stay mostly untouched. The lightweight nature of the cabin adds to its overall design philosophy, fostering integration with the environment while maintaining necessary stability for a temporary building.

The thoughtful relationship between the cabin’s form and its surroundings reflects a focus on creating a space that supports reflection and enhances connection with nature. Users are invited to appreciate their environment fully.

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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

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