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Reed-Braided Sanctuary Crafted From Natural Wood in Aotearoa

Authors:
Daniel Ritter, Mihály dla Balázs
Reed-Braided Sanctuary Crafted From Natural Wood in Aotearoa

Project in-detail

Nestled within the lush landscape of New Zealand, the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin showcases a circular design with natural wood and unique reed braiding, creating a tranquil sanctuary for mindfulness and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The meditation cabin features a distinctive circular layout, enhancing the sense of unity and wholeness.
02
Natural wood is utilized throughout the structure, promoting sustainability and a deep connection to the local environment.
03
Reed braiding is integrated into the design, adding texture and reflecting traditional building techniques.
04
Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
05
The cabin includes communal spaces, fostering community interaction and engagement with nature.
The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin project is a thoughtfully designed architectural space that serves as a sanctuary for meditation and reflection. Situated in a natural environment, this cabin exemplifies a harmonious relationship between architecture and the surrounding landscape. The project represents a retreat from the distractions of modern life, inviting individuals to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and nature.

The main function of the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is to provide a tranquil space for meditation, allowing individuals to engage in introspection and mindfulness. This small-scale structure is carefully designed with a central meditative space that facilitates individual or group practices. The layout encourages movement and contemplation through a winding path, symbolizing a journey inward and echoing the philosophical tenets of meditation. Unique to this design is its circular configuration, which creates a sense of unity and wholeness, essential aspects of a meditative experience.

The cabin's materiality plays a significant role in its architectural identity. The use of natural wood envelops the structure, providing warmth and a tactile quality that resonates with the natural environment. Complementing this, reed braids create a visual connection to local traditions, while baked clay components may serve functional roles, introducing a primitive yet effective approach to sustainable design. Furthermore, strategically placed glass panels allow for natural light to flood the interior space, enhancing the atmosphere for meditation by connecting occupants visually and conceptually with the outside world.

Among the notable details of this project is its emphasis on sustainable practices. The use of locally-sourced materials not only reduces the ecological footprint of the cabin but also reinforces its integration within the local context. The design encourages an interaction with the site, promoting a sense of belonging and connection to place. The configuration of the cabin also includes communal areas, such as shared gardens, which foster community engagement and reinforce the spirit of shared experience among users.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin showcases unique design approaches that enhance its purpose as a meditative sanctuary. A deliberate focus on the sensory experience is apparent through the incorporation of varied materials and textures that engage users on multiple levels. The folding design elements skillfully connect the interior and exterior environments, allowing for flexibility based on weather conditions and user needs. This interaction with the natural surroundings fosters an atmosphere conducive to mindfulness and contemplation.

This project also considers the importance of cultural references and contemporary architectural dialogues. The architectural design navigates between historical forms of traditional huts and modern interpretations of shelters, reflecting a deep understanding of architectural language. In this way, the cabin stands as a bridge between the past and present, drawing inspiration from vernacular architecture while employing contemporary methods and materials.

For those interested in a comprehensive exploration of this architectural project, there is an opportunity to delve into the details of its architectural plans, sections, and designs. Each element contributes to a greater understanding of the Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin, providing insights into the architectural ideas that inform its conception and realization. Engaging with these presentations will enrich the reader's appreciation of how this project embodies a peaceful retreat, dedicated to the practice of meditation and the celebration of nature.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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