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Rainwater Collecting Oculus in a Polygonal Wooden Cabin

Authors:
Marie Le roy, Caroline Jousset
Rainwater Collecting Oculus in a Polygonal Wooden Cabin

Project in-detail

The polygonal wooden cabin, characterized by its central rainwater-collecting oculus and minimalist interior, provides a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a central oculus that collects rainwater for drainage.
02
The exterior is clad in wooden scales that offer a tactile texture and visual warmth.
03
A polygonal platform invites users to remove their shoes before entering.
04
The design allows for adaptable use of the fireplace for seasonal needs.
05
The structure relies on small wooden elements supported by metal piles for stability.

The meditation cabin is located in a quiet natural setting designed to encourage reflection and mindfulness. Inspired by the Japanese enso symbol, it emphasizes the connection between users and their environment. The cabin features a unique form reminiscent of traditional wooden huts, highlighted by an oculus that brings in natural light. The overall concept seeks to create a space that promotes contemplation while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.

Exterior Design

The design of the cabin presents a polygonal shape that blends modern ideas with traditional styles. Wooden scales cover the exterior, complemented by polished glass, creating a balance between openness and privacy. The oculus is intentionally positioned to allow light to wash over the interior, symbolizing a connection to the skies. The entrance, framed by a narrow crack, invites visitors into a peaceful space that encourages quiet thought.

Interior Layout

Inside, the layout is carefully planned to guide individuals as they transition from the outside world to a space of calm. A polygonal platform is raised above the floor level, encouraging users to remove their shoes. This act symbolizes the release of outside distractions. The platform also includes niches for storage, which helps maintain a clean and simple environment suitable for meditation. The open spaces within the cabin allow for movement and thought without obstruction.

Functional Features

At the heart of the cabin is a fireplace that adapts according to the seasons. During colder months, it provides warmth and creates a cozy atmosphere. In rainy weather, the fireplace cleverly collects water through the oculus, enhancing its usefulness. When not in use for fire, the fireplace can become a flat surface for drying flowers, further linking the cabin to its natural surroundings.

Structural Considerations

Building methods for the cabin include small wooden elements supported by metal piles. This approach ensures stability and makes assembly easier in remote areas. The arrangement of the structural elements allows for views toward the entrance and culminates in the oculus, improving the experience of entering the space. This design detail shows careful consideration of both strength and the ability to connect with the landscape.

The integration of light, space, and function creates a calm environment that invites visitors to engage in deep meditation.

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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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