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Radiata Pine Crib Embracing Mindfulness Within a Forest Retreat

Authors:
Randall Teal, Nick Grover, Luke Ivers
Radiata Pine Crib Embracing Mindfulness Within a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Stacked radiata pine walls define a meditation space that harmonizes with its forest surroundings, inviting users to engage in mindfulness and reflection amidst nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Stacked radiata pine walls create a distinct boundary between interior and exterior.
02
Large glass openings enhance natural light and visual connection to the surrounding forest.
03
The structure is situated in a grove of trees, integrating it with the natural landscape.
04
The design incorporates principles of Wairuatanga, emphasizing presence and mindfulness.
05
The meditation space promotes introspection through its carefully organized layout.

The meditation space is set in a calm natural environment designed to encourage mindfulness and reflection. It embodies a concept that contrasts the organic development of nature with the careful crafting of human design. By focusing on this duality, the design highlights the importance of engaging with the surroundings and integrating local materials, creating a thoughtful balance between built structures and the environment.

Conceptual Framework

The design fosters a connection between the interior space and the natural landscape. It emphasizes the need for ecological awareness while addressing the human experience. Arrangements of solid forms paired with transparent elements allow for ongoing interaction with the outside world, creating spaces that are conducive to introspection.

Material Selection

Central to the design are the stacked wooden walls made from locally sourced radiata pine. This material choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and local resource use. The natural qualities of wood contribute to the structure's strength and warmth, offering both visual appeal and practical function while defining boundaries that connect the interior to the exterior.

Spatial Organization

Visitors approach the meditation area via a path that is gently integrated into the landscape. The structure is placed among trees, blending into its surroundings rather than imposing upon them. The relationship between solid wooden walls and large glass surfaces enhances the interior atmosphere, allowing light to pour in and create inviting spaces filled with shadows and patterns.

Philosophical Engagement

The design also explores deeper themes of existence and awareness. Drawing from concepts such as the Māori idea of Wairuatanga, it encourages visitors to be present and to recognize their relationship with nature. This perspective adds depth to the experience, making the meditation space not just a place of refuge but a meaningful interaction with the essence of being.

In the center of the meditation area, a large window frames a view of the forest. This feature brings the calming presence of nature indoors, creating a comfortable atmosphere where one can feel both connected to the environment and at peace within the space.

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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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