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Radiata Pine Structure With a Central Skylight for Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Alejandro Ricote, Diego Sierra, Miriam Engelmayer, Alejandro Cárdenas
Radiata Pine Structure With a Central Skylight for Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

A central skylight illuminates the altar within a structure of radiata pine, designed to create a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection in a natural bush setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fohat is inspired by an ancient symbol representing the connection between matter and energy.
02
The cabin is located 300 meters from the main residence, enhancing its sense of seclusion.
03
Staggered platforms facilitate both personal reflection and group interaction.
04
Natural light from the skylight highlights the central altar, enhancing the meditation experience.
05
Flexible coverings allow users to adjust their connection to the surrounding environment.

The Fohat Meditation Cabin is located 300 meters from the main residence at The Earth Energies Sanctuary, designed to be a peaceful space for meditation and introspection. Drawing from the concept of Fohat, which represents the connection between matter and energy, the cabin's design promotes a sense of balance and tranquility. Users are invited to find solace within its walls while remaining engaged with the surrounding natural environment.

Design Geometry

The architecture features a spiral path formed by staggered platforms that guide users through the space. This layout encourages interaction among users while allowing for moments of personal reflection. Five distinct platforms are integrated into the design, each serving a specific function. This thoughtful arrangement provides flexibility, accommodating both individual meditation and group activities.

Central Altar

At the center of the cabin sits an altar positioned beneath a skylight, creating a focal point for light and energy. The design emphasizes natural illumination, enhancing the spiritual aspect of the space. This altar doubles as a table for plants, seamlessly reinforcing the connection between the interior and nature.

Material Considerations

Materials chosen for the cabin reflect a focus on sustainability and a commitment to the environment. Radiata pine is used for its structural qualities and warm appearance. Steel is incorporated for joints to ensure stability and durability. Glass features prominently in the skylight, allowing for the entry of natural light, while concrete footings provide a solid foundation. Recycled polyester fabric is included for the flexible coverings, making it easy for users to adapt their experience based on their preferences.

Spatial Interaction

The design allows for a thoughtful relationship with the surrounding landscape. Users can choose to engage with or separate themselves from nature as they wish. This adaptability, coupled with the cabin’s unique geometric arrangement, offers a customized experience for each individual. The interplay of elements within the cabin creates a setting that encourages mindfulness and personal exploration.

Flexible coverings adjust the connection to the outdoors, inviting in light and air while maintaining an intimate atmosphere inside. Each moment spent in the cabin aims to foster reflection and a deeper engagement with the natural world.

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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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