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Reflective Cabin With Laminated Wood Emphasizing Meditative Space

Authors:
Keith Lashley, Andrew Tesmacher
Reflective Cabin With Laminated Wood Emphasizing Meditative Space

Project in-detail

The use of a mirrored facade and laminated wood creates a reflective cabin that encourages introspection and meditation within a tranquil natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a mirrored facade that enhances self-reflection and connection with nature.
02
Interior cabinets hold crystals that create prismatic light effects based on user preference.
03
Design incorporates Maori symbolism in the surrounding garden to deepen the meditative experience.
04
Phase change materials in the walls effectively manage temperature by storing and releasing solar energy.
05
The structure uses laminated wood beams, showcasing a commitment to sustainable materials and practices.

The -ion Meditation cabin is a thoughtfully designed space that aims to foster introspection and self-discovery. Set in a landscape of natural beauty, the cabin encourages users to engage with their environment while contemplating important life questions. The design connects deeply with nature, guiding individuals toward a meaningful meditative experience through its reflective surfaces and organic shapes.

Reflective Facade

The cabin features a mirrored facade that allows individuals to see their reflections in the surrounding environment. This design choice creates a connection with nature, prompting users to reflect on their identities and place in the world. As they approach the cabin, their image grows smaller compared to the larger trees and plants nearby, forming a visual reminder of the exploration of self.

Interior and Garden Interaction

Transitioning from the garden to the cabin interior enhances the overall sensory experience. The garden consists of various zones inspired by Maori symbols, particularly the koru, which encourages meditation and contemplation. This arrangement invites interaction with nature, enabling users to connect more fully during their reflective moments.

Lighting and Adaptability

Inside the cabin, there are cabinets that hold crystals designed to cast prismatic light across the space. Users can choose to reveal or conceal these crystals behind sliding pocket doors. This flexibility allows for adjustments based on personal preferences, making it easy for individuals to create the right atmosphere for either stimulation or calm.

Thermal Management

An effective heating and cooling system is also a key feature of the cabin. It uses phase change material (PCM) eutectic salts contained in sealed aluminum cannisters. This system captures solar energy to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year. The primary structure is made from laminated wood beams and columns, with recycled materials incorporated into the design. This choice highlights a commitment to sustainability, merging practical concerns with aesthetic appeal.

The interior invites quiet reflection through its spatial organization and intelligent use of light, creating a space where individuals can explore their thoughts in a calm 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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