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Rainwater-Cooled Space Enhanced by a Bamboo Cylinder for Meditation

Authors:
Mikuláš Starý, Tadeáš Starý
Rainwater-Cooled Space Enhanced by a Bamboo Cylinder for Meditation
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Equipped with a bamboo cylinder for sunlight control and a rainwater-cooled ceramic air conditioning system, the cabin offers a focused, tranquil space designed specifically for meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ceramic air conditioning system utilizes harvested rainwater for cooling.
02
Bamboo cylinder provides shade while allowing plants to grow.
03
Radial wall design optimizes natural light diffusion throughout the cabin.
04
Custom-made bricks reflect local traditional building techniques.
05
Flexible rolling window system maintains connectivity with the surrounding environment.

The Meditation Cabin is located in the calm landscapes of Vale de Moses, Portugal, designed for individuals seeking spaces to meditate and reflect. The design promotes a close connection to nature, allowing users to focus on their surroundings while reducing distractions. The overall concept centers on creating an environment that supports well-being and contemplation.

Key Spaces

The cabin is divided into several functional areas, including outer and inner meditation spaces, a hall, and a massage area. Each space has a specific purpose, whether for personal reflection or group activities. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the flow of movement within the cabin, encouraging users to enjoy a peaceful experience throughout the different areas.

Light and Environment

Natural light plays an important role in the cabin's design. The structure is influenced by circadian rhythms, which dictate how sunlight enters the space. A radial wall helps to disperse light evenly, providing comfort without overheating the interior. This focus on natural illumination contributes to a warm atmosphere, creating an inviting setting for meditation and mindfulness.

Sustainable Systems

An innovative ceramic air conditioning system marks a practical commitment to sustainability. Rainwater is collected from the roof and directed into a tank, where it cools the air through specially designed bricks. This system reduces energy use and showcases the project's reliance on local resources, providing an environmentally friendly approach to comfort.

Material Expression

The facade of the cabin features custom-made bricks that reflect traditional building techniques, creating a link to the cultural heritage of the region. A bamboo cylinder stands out as a key design element, offering shade to the meditation area while allowing for the growth of plants. This design detail not only enhances the cabin's connection to its environment but also maintains a natural feel.

The inclusion of a rolling window system enhances adaptability. A large circular sliding door allows users to regulate airflow and access while ensuring the interior remains connected to the outdoor surroundings. This flexibility contributes to the overall comfort and functionality of the space.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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MICROHOME
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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