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Reflective Cabin With Mirrored Glass and Tapered Form Nestled in Urban Landscape

Authors:
Giulio Violanti, Tommaso Pistolesi, Simone Palmieri
Reflective Cabin With Mirrored Glass and Tapered Form Nestled in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the urban landscape, a mirrored glass cabin with a tapered form invites contemplation and reflection, serving as a serene retreat for city dwellers.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a mirrored glass exterior that reflects its urban surroundings, enhancing its integration with the landscape.
02
A tapered form elevates the structure, creating a sculptural quality that encourages aesthetic engagement.
03
The design incorporates translucent panels to allow natural light while maintaining privacy and a serene atmosphere.
04
Cross-laminated timber is utilized for structural support, combining sustainability with modern construction techniques.
05
The minimalist interior layout prioritizes a meditative environment, inviting users to engage in moments of reflection.
The project "Reflect" is a thoughtfully designed architectural endeavor that embodies a unique approach to urban existence, emphasizing the need for contemplation and mindfulness within city environments. This structure serves as a reflective cabin, specifically crafted to provide a peaceful retreat for individuals seeking solace from the fast-paced urban life. The design showcases an innovative blend of form and function, effectively addressing the need for spaces that foster personal reflection while integrating harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

The essence of the project lies in its ability to create a sanctuary that encourages users to pause, reflect, and reconnect, not only with themselves but also with their urban surroundings. The cabin's dimensions of 2 meters by 5 meters, coupled with a tapered form that rises toward the top, communicate a modern and sculptural quality. This design is not merely about aesthetics; it invites users to engage with the distinct shape and how it interacts with light and space, prompting a dialogue between the cabin and the broader landscape.

The architectural design incorporates three fundamental components: "skin," "skeleton," and "soul and roots." The "skin" of the cabin is clad in mirrored glass, which serves dual purposes—the reflective properties allow the structure to integrate with its environment, making it visually dynamic and responsive to shifting light conditions throughout the day. This transparency fosters a sense of fluidity between the building and its surroundings, subtly encouraging occupants to engage with the urban fabric outside.

The "skeleton" of the cabin refers to its structural framework, designed to ensure stability while enabling a flexible internal layout. This inner framework supports the overall design without compromising the cabin's intimate atmosphere. The spatial organization within is kept minimalistic and user-focused, allowing individuals to truly embrace the simplicity that contemplation requires.

Central to the cabin's design is the concept of "soul and roots," which emphasizes the interior environment. The use of semi-translucent materials allows natural light to filter in gently, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful consideration of light enhances the cabin’s ability to serve its primary function as a meditative space. The carefully curated interior is meant to evoke a sense of calm and encourage a reflective mindset.

What sets "Reflect" apart is its distinctive approach to integrating organic forms with urban architecture. The reflective exterior creates an illusion of continuity, encouraging users to lose themselves in their thoughts while being enveloped by views of the urban landscape and natural surroundings. This strategic design approach promotes a connection between the internal and external environments, effectively blurring the boundaries typically associated with architecture.

Moreover, the project stands out for its commitment to user experience, subtly prioritizing emotional well-being within a modern context. It addresses a pressing societal need for restorative spaces in an increasingly hectic world. In doing so, "Reflect" positions itself as both a functional space for individuals and a piece of public art that enhances the urban landscape.

The project invites further exploration into its architectural plans and sections, providing insights into the intricate design process that led to its realization. By examining these elements, one can appreciate the meticulous attention to detail and the thoughtful architectural ideas that underpin the project. "Reflect" not only challenges conventional notions of public spaces but also highlights the importance of architectural design in fostering mental clarity and mindfulness in urban settings. For those interested in grasping a deeper understanding of this unique architectural endeavor, viewing the project presentation will offer valuable insights into its innovative design and function.
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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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