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Reflection Pool and Plywood Structure Enhancing Contemplative Practices

Author:
Thomas Purdy
Reflection Pool and Plywood Structure Enhancing Contemplative Practices

Project in-detail

The reflection pool acts as a central element within a plywood structure designed to foster mindfulness and serenity, serving as a dedicated space for meditation and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The sloping roof directs visitors toward a dedicated meditation zone.
02
Clerestory windows facilitate natural light and ventilation throughout the cabin.
03
A reflection pool captures rainwater, enhancing sustainability efforts.
04
Plywood construction allows for efficient and economical assembly.
05
The layout balances communal and private areas for varied user experiences.

The cabin design emphasizes simplicity and a strong connection to the surrounding natural landscape. Situated in a calming environment, it serves as a retreat for meditation and reflection. The design focuses on functionality, providing spaces that encourage tranquility and contemplation while facilitating community interaction.

Design Concept
The defining element of the cabin is its sloping roof, which guides visitors toward the meditation area at the back of the building. This choice not only adds to the visual appeal but also creates a sense of movement and purpose. As individuals approach the meditation zone, they are naturally drawn into a space intended for peace and quiet.

Materials Used
Plywood is the primary building material, reflecting a focus on cost-effectiveness and ease of construction. This choice allows the cabin to maintain structural integrity while embodying a straightforward aesthetic. Plywood's characteristics make it suitable for a lightweight structure, which aligns with a design approach centered on simplicity and practicality.

Natural Light and Sound
Clerestory operable windows are incorporated to maximize the entry of natural light and improve ventilation. These windows provide a connection to the outside world, allowing nature’s sounds to enter the cabin. The careful arrangement of these elements creates a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the experience for those inside.

Reflection Pool
One of the most notable features is the reflection pool, designed to be about the size of a yoga mat. It effectively captures rainwater from the roof, promoting an eco-friendly approach while also serving as a tranquil spot for contemplation. The positioning of the pool combined with the clerestory windows creates a connection between the interior and the beautiful landscape outside.

The interior layout supports easy use, incorporating workspaces and a woodstove within an open area. Essential functions like the toilet, bed, and kitchen are arranged efficiently. This careful organization ensures comfort and usability while maintaining a peaceful environment. The design encourages residents to reflect and find moments of calm, providing a thoughtful space for relaxation and mindfulness.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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