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Pine Structures Elevated Over Nature With Polystyrene Insulation for Reflective Meditation

Authors:
Jun Hao, Xuran Zhang, Shuyun Bao
Pine Structures Elevated Over Nature With Polystyrene Insulation for Reflective Meditation

Project in-detail

An "S" shaped cabin, raised for both environmental protection and wildlife shelter, utilizes pine and polystyrene to create distinct meditation spaces that foster a deep connection with the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
An "S" shaped wall enhances engagement with the forest environment.
02
The cabin is raised to provide shelter for local wildlife.
03
Furniture is integrated into the walls to maximize space efficiency.
04
Polystyrene insulation ensures thermal comfort in varying climates.
05
Solar panels support energy needs while minimizing environmental impact.

Surrounded by the forests of Latvia, the meditation cabin offers a connection to nature through its thoughtful design. It is built primarily for reflection and contemplation, featuring an "S" shaped wall that encourages interaction with the landscape. The design concept promotes ecological mutualism, highlighting the importance of coexistence between human activities and wildlife.

Form and Geometry

The “S” shape of the cabin influences how it relates to its environment and the users within it. This unique form allows for various experiences in the space, creating specific areas for meditation that enhance sensory connections to the forest. Large windows are carefully placed to capture natural light, ensuring that the users can enjoy views of the surrounding trees and landscapes throughout the day.



Spatial Organization

The layout of the cabin is designed to facilitate different modes of living and meditation. Furniture is strategically integrated into the walls, optimizing space and creating a clean environment. Multiple meditation zones are established, enabling users to immerse themselves in nature from different vantage points, whether they prefer the expansive views offered by the south-facing windows or the quiet surrounds near the north windows.



Sustainability and Materials

Sustainability plays a key role in the overall design, reflected in both material choices and construction practices. The cabin utilizes pine wood boards and wood keels, which not only enhance its natural look but also provide necessary structural support. Polystyrene insulation is installed to ensure that the space remains comfortable throughout the changing seasons. Additionally, solar panels and a rainwater collection system help maintain the cabin’s function while reducing its environmental impact.



Design Details

The structure is raised off the ground, which offers several benefits. It protects local wildlife from harsh weather and reduces snow accumulation around the building during winter. An innovative toilet system that does not rely on traditional plumbing also highlights the focus on eco-friendly solutions. The combination of intentional shape, organized spaces, and selected materials creates a calm environment for reflection. This design effectively supports a relationship with nature, inviting visitors to appreciate their surroundings in a meaningful way.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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