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Rainwater Collection and Natural Resin Treatment in a Timber Meditation Retreat

Author:
Silvia Molinari
Rainwater Collection and Natural Resin Treatment in a Timber Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Employing a rainwater collection system and natural resin treatments, the structure integrates locally sourced timber and straw-wood panels to create a retreat for meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to sustainably provide water for the massage room.
02
Features movable panels in the meditation space for customizable environmental control.
03
Constructed using locally sourced timber, reducing transportation energy costs.
04
Uses straw-wood panels for insulation, ensuring high thermal performance with natural materials.
05
Elevated design minimizes soil moisture exposure, enhancing structural longevity.

The Luna meditation cabin is a carefully designed space situated in a calming natural setting that aims to enhance well-being. Inspired by the moon, it encapsulates themes of enlightenment and introspection. The design thoughtfully separates areas for different activities, creating a nurturing environment that encourages personal reflection and relaxation.

Structure and Layout

The cabin features two main levels, each serving a specific purpose. On the ground floor, there is a massage room that provides a secure and private atmosphere for therapeutic activities. The enclosed space utilizes overhead lighting to create a warm, inviting ambiance that supports relaxation and comfort.

The meditation room is located above the massage area. It incorporates movable panels that allow users to adapt the space according to their preferences. This flexibility encourages a deeper connection with the natural environment while offering a sense of shelter. It enables users to customize their meditation experience based on their needs.

Materiality and Sustainability

The approach to construction reflects a commitment to sustainability through the choice of materials. The frame is made from locally sourced timber, reducing the energy footprint associated with transportation and construction. Straw-wood panels, composed of 98% natural materials, provide insulation with strong thermal properties, exemplifying the project's attention to ecological concerns.

To maintain the durability of the wood, natural resin treatments are applied to the exterior panels. This protects the structure while enhancing its aesthetic appeal, making it blend well with the surroundings. Additionally, the cabin is elevated above the ground using small metal supports, helping to minimize moisture exposure and increase longevity.

Functional Features

The design of the cabin includes a rainwater collection system, which directs water from the roof into a storage tank. This feature promotes self-sufficiency by supplying water to the massage room. It reflects a practical integration of sustainability into the overall design, showcasing the commitment to environmentally responsible architecture.

Overall, the Luna meditation cabin demonstrates how thoughtful design can support personal wellness while fostering a connection to nature. The arrangement of functional spaces, careful choice of materials, and self-sustaining elements come together to create an environment focused on tranquility and mindfulness. The balance between indoor and outdoor experiences invites users to engage with the surrounding landscape, enhancing their time spent in this reflective 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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