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Perforated Screen and Oculus Create Calm in Cylindrical Meditation Space

Author:
Sam Eckerson
Perforated Screen and Oculus Create Calm in Cylindrical Meditation Space

Project in-detail

The cylindrical meditation space, defined by its perforated screen and central oculus, offers a focused environment for introspection in the heart of Tokyo's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical form enhances focus and tranquility.
02
Clockwise entry process prepares users for meditation.
03
Perforated screen filters external distractions while maintaining light.
04
Oculus provides a singular connection to the outside environment.
05
Designed for versatility in both urban and natural settings.

The Tokyo Meditation Cabin provides a space for reflection and tranquility in the busy urban environment of Tokyo. Its design promotes mental well-being, aiming to help users find peace amid the noise of city life. Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese meditation, particularly the kinhin practice, the cabin focuses on creating a seamless transition from the outside world to a place of calm and self-discovery.

Entrance Sequence

A notable feature of the cabin is its clockwise entry. This pathway encourages individuals to gradually shift their attention from the external environment to their inner thoughts. The journey is marked by a perforated screen that acts as a barrier, filtering external distractions and nurturing a sense of privacy. This mindful approach to the entrance allows users to prepare themselves mentally before entering the main space for meditation.

Cylindrical Form

The shape of the cabin is cylindrical, which plays a significant role in its overall function. This design directs attention to the center, creating a focused area that enhances the feeling of calm. The rounded lines are not only visually pleasing but also contribute to a stable atmosphere, essential for fostering a meditative experience. This simple yet effective form invites users to settle into a state of reflection.

Natural Illumination

At the heart of the cabin is an oculus positioned above, offering the only source of natural light. This architectural element creates a unique connection between those inside and the environment outside. Dappled light flows into the space, while a view upwards allows for moments of awareness. This feature helps users feel linked to their surroundings even while absorbed in their thoughts.

The cabin is adaptable in its design, allowing it to fit comfortably in both urban and natural landscapes. Its versatility makes it suitable for various meditation practices while upholding its primary purpose. The use of a perforated screen serves to enhance the sensory experience, balancing the need for light and privacy and enabling introspection without losing touch with the outside world.

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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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