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Pine and Stone Retreat With Underground Silence Chamber for Meditation

Author:
Ksenia Polyakova
Pine and Stone Retreat With Underground Silence Chamber for Meditation

Project in-detail

An underground silence chamber complements the pine and stone structure, creating a focused environment for meditation within a harmoniously landscaped retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
An underground silence chamber enhances meditation experiences by isolating external noise.
02
The structure uses locally sourced pine and stone to minimize environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Large windows facilitate ample natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
05
The bent A-frame design promotes structural integrity while blending with the natural setting.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project designed to provide a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection. Situated in the natural landscape of Latvia, the camp features a distinctive barn-like structure that integrates with its surroundings. The architecture emphasizes sustainability, utilizing local materials and natural light to create an inviting space for users. This facility serves as a retreat where individuals can engage in meditation, workshops, and community gatherings.

The camp consists of several key functional areas, including communal spaces for cooking and socializing, individual meditation rooms, and an underground silence chamber. Each space is strategically designed to promote a sense of calm and enhance the overall experience of retreating from everyday life. The use of expansive windows allows natural light to permeate, enhancing the connection between indoors and outdoors.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the most notable aspects of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is its integration of sustainable design principles. The project utilizes pine wood and natural stone as primary materials, contributing to both the aesthetic quality and the environmental sustainability of the structure. The choice of locally sourced materials not only reduces the project's carbon footprint but also grounds the building within its geographical context.

The architectural design also includes passive cooling and heating strategies that respond to the local climate. The orientation of the building maximizes sunlight during winter months while providing shade during the summer. This consideration for environmental factors enhances the building's energy efficiency and user comfort.

Architectural Elements

The architectural layout supports an open concept that fosters community interaction while allowing for personal introspection. Communal kitchens and dining areas are designed for social gatherings, while individual meditation rooms offer privacy for personal reflection. The underground silence chamber is a unique feature, providing an isolated space for deeper meditation free from external disturbances.

Landscaping around the camp is an integral part of the overall project design, promoting interaction with nature. The inclusion of gardens, pathways, and shaded areas contributes to the camp's purpose as a retreat. Rainwater harvesting systems are also incorporated into the landscaping, supporting sustainability in water management.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp. This review offers a comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategies and functional elements that define this unique meditation space.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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