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Reflective Glass And Natural Stone Create Serene Meditation Spaces With Community Focus

Author:
Ekaterina Ugriumova
Reflective Glass And Natural Stone Create Serene Meditation Spaces With Community Focus

Project in-detail

Employing reflective glass and natural stone, the design integrates seamlessly with its environment to create tranquil spaces focused on meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates sliding panels that enhance spatial flexibility and interaction with nature.
02
Reflective glass strategically placed to create visual connections with the surrounding landscape.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while adding a character to the building’s facade.
04
Natural stone is utilized for the foundation, anchoring the structure within its environment.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels offer sustainable construction benefits while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
The Maya Meditation Garden is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project that presents a harmonious blend of nature and built form, designed primarily to facilitate meditation and reflection. The architectural design reflects a commitment to creating a tranquil environment where individuals can connect with their surroundings and experience a sense of peace. The project represents a philosophical exploration of the concept of "Māyā," or illusion, emphasizing the relationship between perception and reality within the context of architectural space.

At its core, the function of the Maya Meditation Garden revolves around offering a space dedicated to introspection and relaxation. The layout consists of five distinct volumes, which are strategically arranged to navigate the natural topography of the site. This organization results in two levels of engagement with the landscape, creating a relationship between the built space and the surrounding elements, notably an adjacent stream which adds to the ambiance of tranquility.

The main building is the cornerstone of this project, larger than the auxiliary spaces, and serves as a focal point for visitors. Its design is characterized by a seamless integration with the outdoor environment, featuring expansive façades that open up to stunning views and promote a continuous connection with nature. The architectural design employs a range of materials that collectively enhance this connection. Natural stone forms the foundational elements, while wood is used prominently throughout the structure to maintain a sense of warmth and organic quality. In addition, glass plays a crucial role in the design, providing transparency that allows natural light to flood the interiors while reflecting the surroundings, thus reinforcing the theme of illusion.

One of the noteworthy aspects of the Maya Meditation Garden is its attention to sustainability. The incorporation of sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies demonstrates a responsible approach to design, minimizing the ecological footprint of the project. Solar panels, for instance, contribute to the building's energy needs while blending naturally into the overall aesthetic.

The interior layout is designed with flexibility in mind, accommodating various activities related to meditation and communal gatherings. The thoughtful placement of windows not only invites natural light but also frames views of the landscape, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances visitors' experiences. The choice of landscaping further enriches the project, incorporating native flora to promote biodiversity and create private spaces for contemplation amidst nature.

The unique design approaches evident in the Maya Meditation Garden highlight an innovative use of materials and contextual awareness, allowing the building to exist not merely as a physical structure but as an invitation for users to engage with their environment. Elements such as sliding panels and strategically placed mirrors blur the lines between the interior and exterior, prompting visitors to reassess their perceptions of space and presence.

The architectural design of the Maya Meditation Garden serves as a model for spaces that prioritize well-being through an intimate connection with nature. Its careful consideration of material choices, layout, and environmental integration reflect a balanced approach to modern architecture that respects tradition while engaging with contemporary ideas.

To gain a deeper understanding of the aesthetic and functional nuances of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that reveal the intricate details and thoughtful decisions that went into creating the Maya Meditation Garden. This exploration will provide further insight into the architectural ideas that shaped this serene environment for meditation and reflection.
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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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