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Petal-Inspired Structure Featuring ETFE Membrane and Bamboo Framework for Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Marta Banachowicz, Jan Gołębiowski
Petal-Inspired Structure Featuring ETFE Membrane and Bamboo Framework for Mindful Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with an intricate petal-like design and enveloped in a transparent ETFE membrane, this mindful retreat utilizes a bamboo framework to create a serene space dedicated to meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a petal-like design that allows for natural ventilation and light.
02
Bamboo framing is utilized, emphasizing sustainable material choices and reducing carbon footprint.
03
The cabin features an adjustable outer skin made of ETFE, which can be opened or closed based on environmental conditions.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated, promoting self-sufficiency and minimizing water waste.
05
The interior layout is modular, enabling flexible use and adaptation for various mindfulness practices.
The Meditation Lotus Cabin is an architectural design project that embraces the principles of mindfulness, reflection, and connection with nature. Its design takes inspiration from the lotus flower, symbolizing purity and spiritual growth, making it an ideal space for meditation and personal retreat. The structure aims to serve as a tranquil haven, allowing individuals to disengage from the busyness of life and delve into a practice that promotes mental well-being.

Functionally, the cabin is conceived as a multi-purpose space that can accommodate various activities centered around relaxation and introspection. The design incorporates areas specifically tailored for meditation, yoga, and quiet contemplation. The layout showcases an innovative use of space, featuring an octagonal floor plan that unfolds into eight petal-like extensions. Each extension harmonizes with the themes of the lotus, reinforcing the connection between architectural form and natural elements.

One significant aspect of the cabin's design is its adaptability. The construction enables flexible use based on user needs and environmental conditions. This functionality is achieved through adjustable panels that can be opened or closed to modulate light and airflow. The cabin invites users to experience a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor settings, promoting a sense of openness and connectivity with the surrounding landscape.

The selection of materials plays a key role in embodying the project's sustainable ethos. Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) membranes are utilized to create transparent walls that not only allow ample natural light but are also energy-efficient and low-maintenance. These membranes contribute to the aesthetic quality of the cabin while offering insulation, thereby enhancing the overall comfort of the space. Bamboo serves as a central structural element due to its strength, versatility, and ecological benefits. This material choice underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability, providing a green alternative without compromising on aesthetics or performance.

Another noteworthy feature of the Meditation Lotus Cabin is the deliberate integration of ecological principles in its design. The structure accommodates a rainwater harvesting system, emphasizing resource conservation and operational independence. This focus on eco-friendliness extends to the cabin's mechanical systems, which encourage minimal reliance on external energy sources. By addressing environmental concerns through thoughtful design, the project sets a precedent for future architectural endeavors that prioritize living in harmony with nature.

The surrounding context of the cabin enriches its intended purpose as a space for reflection. Ideally situated within a natural landscape populated with various flora, the environment invites users to engage with the outdoors. Pathways and open recreational spaces facilitate interaction with the local ecology, further enhancing the meditative experience.

In summary, the Meditation Lotus Cabin represents a well-conceived architectural project that fuses the ideas of wellness, sustainability, and innovative design. Its unique approach to form and function creates a welcoming atmosphere for introspection and personal growth. For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, designs, and overarching ideas will provide additional insights and understanding into the thoughtful considerations that define the Meditation Lotus Cabin. Engaging with these elements reveals the depth of the design and its potential impact on users, solidifying its role as a valuable addition to the discourse on contemporary architecture and mindfulness.
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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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