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Rainwater Systems and Natural Ventilation in a Wood and Stone Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Karen Frome, Darwin Poblete, Andrea Yang, Marta Portillo
Rainwater Systems and Natural Ventilation in a Wood and Stone Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

With a rainwater collection system and operable wood panels that enhance natural ventilation, the meditation cabin offers a harmonious space for reflection, deeply connected to its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Operable panels provide flexible interactions with the surrounding nature.
02
The rainwater collection system supports a lush planter within the cabin.
03
Wood screens are designed to diffuse light and sound, enhancing tranquility.
04
Natural ventilation is prioritized through strategically placed openings.
05
The project incorporates sustainable design elements to minimize environmental impact.

The VALE DE MOSES MEDITATION CABIN, known as DiStill Hut, is located in a tranquil natural environment and serves as a space for meditation. The design integrates the surrounding landscape with the goal of creating a balance between the inside and outside worlds. The structure captures important elements like water, sun, and wind, turning them into useful resources that enhance the user experience.

Architecture Concept

The main idea behind the meditation cabin is to act as a bridge between the internal environment and nature. By incorporating elements found in the surrounding landscape, the building makes use of natural resources such as energy and water. The layout is thoughtfully arranged to provide a serene setting where users can engage in self-reflection while being surrounded by nature.

Materiality and Construction

The meditation cabin is built using wood and stone, materials that harmonize with the environment. The wood serves as both walls and roof, providing structural support while giving a warm and inviting appearance. The stone flooring adds a grounding effect and enhances the tactile experience of the interior space. These materials are chosen to promote sustainability and enrich the sensory experience for those using the cabin.

Environmental Integration

A notable feature of the cabin is its approach to managing rainwater. The design includes a system that collects rainwater and channels it through screens, creating a soothing sound that enhances the meditation experience. This system also encourages the growth of plants, contributing to the calming atmosphere. Large operable windows and a significant panel allow for interaction with the outside, making it easy for occupants to connect with nature.

Sensory Experience

The layout employs various openings and screens to filter light and sound. This approach reduces distractions and helps create a peaceful environment. The arrangement of these elements also allows for natural airflow and control over light, giving users the ability to adjust their surroundings to increase comfort. The focus on sensory experience results in a welcoming space designed for relaxation and reflection.

Floor-to-ceiling operable panels frame views of the landscape, further linking the interior of the cabin with the natural world outside. This connection fosters a sense of peace, inviting individuals to immerse themselves in their surrounding environment.

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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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