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Pyramid-Shaped Retreat Crafted from Sustainably Sourced Timber and Eco-Friendly Composite Panels

Author:
Jamil Afana
Pyramid-Shaped Retreat Crafted from Sustainably Sourced Timber and Eco-Friendly Composite Panels

Project in-detail

Crafted from sustainably sourced timber and eco-friendly composite panels, this pyramid-shaped meditation retreat offers a serene connection to nature while providing a versatile space for contemplation and community gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin's pyramid shape optimizes natural light while creating a unique visual presence in the landscape.
02
Sustainably sourced timber is utilized throughout, highlighting a commitment to ecological responsibility in construction.
03
The exterior features eco-friendly composite panels designed to mimic the surrounding natural textures and colors.
04
An elevated wooden platform enhances ventilation and minimizes moisture accumulation, addressing environmental concerns.
05
The central fire pit serves as a focal point for communal interactions, fostering a sense of community among users.
The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is an architectural project designed with a focus on creating a peaceful space for meditation and reflection. At its core, this project represents a harmonious integration of architecture and nature, emphasizing the importance of a tranquil environment for personal wellbeing. The cabin is not just a physical structure; it encapsulates the essence of mindfulness and tranquility, making it a suitable retreat for individuals seeking solitude or communal gatherings centered around introspection.

Functionally, the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin serves as a dedicated space for meditation practice. Its design allows for an immersive experience with nature, enhancing the meditative practices by aligning the interior atmosphere with the external environment. The cabin's carefully considered layout and spatial organization facilitate both individual and group activities, making it an adaptable space for various forms of contemplation and connection.

The architectural design features a distinctive pyramid shape, a decision that not only captures attention but also optimally directs energy and light into the interior. This shape fosters a sense of ascending space, symbolizing a journey of inner exploration which mirrors the meditation process. Large glass panels form a significant aspect of the design, allowing natural light to flood the interior while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. This blurring of boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces is critical for reinforcing the relationship between the occupants and nature, encouraging users to absorb the calming elements of their environment.

In terms of materiality, the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin utilizes locally sourced wood as the primary structural and aesthetic component. This choice not only ensures structural integrity but also reinforces a connection to the local context and ecological sustainability. The use of eco-friendly materials, such as composite panels on the exterior, further emphasizes this commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint while still maintaining a cohesive aesthetic with the site. The rugged texture and earthy tones of these materials promote a sense of belonging, tying the building visually and emotionally to its surroundings.

A notable feature within the cabin is a central fire pit, serving as both a focal point and a functional element for communal gatherings. Surrounding benches crafted from the same wood continue the theme of natural materials while providing comfortable seating for groups engaging in discussions or meditation sessions. The interaction of these various elements illustrates the project’s intent to create not just a space for meditation, but an environment that fosters community and togetherness.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin employs unique design approaches that prioritize simplicity and functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. The project exemplifies the principles of minimalist architecture by stripping away unnecessary distractions, allowing users to focus on their practices. The use of open layout encourages fluid movement and adaptability within the space, accommodating a wide range of activities from solitary meditation to group workshops.

Moreover, the cabin's elevated wooden platform is a thoughtful addition that promotes ventilation and moisture control, further exemplifying an understanding of climatic responses within architectural design. Such details reflect a holistic approach to design, where every decision is made with the occupant's experience and environmental context in mind.

In summary, the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin stands as an example of how architecture can enhance personal and communal experiences through thoughtful design. Its combination of innovative shapes, sustainable materials, and an intimate connection to nature creates an inviting atmosphere conducive to reflection and mindfulness. To delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections of this unique project, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation further for comprehensive insights into its design and planning elements.
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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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