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Reflective Glass Facade and Natural Wood Integration in a Forest Meditation Cabin

Author:
Andreas Amdahl
Reflective Glass Facade and Natural Wood Integration in a Forest Meditation Cabin

Project in-detail

A reflective glass facade melds with locally sourced wood and stone to create a tranquil meditation cabin in the forest, designed to enhance the experience of deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass panels enhance the connection between interior and exterior spaces, allowing nature to become part of the environment.
02
The cabin's design incorporates a sloped site to elevate the meditation experience among treetops.
03
Locally sourced stone cladding provides durability while integrating the structure with its natural surroundings.
04
A multifunctional podium within the meditation area supports diverse practices and gatherings.
05
Charred wooden shingles offer a unique aesthetic while improving weather resistance and longevity.
The architectural project, known as "Mirror," is a meditation cabin designed to foster deep connections with the natural environment while providing a dedicated space for reflection. Located within a forest setting, the structure aims to create an immersive experience that allows occupants to engage with nature in a serene and contemplative manner. The design prioritizes transparency and light, integrating the indoor space seamlessly with the picturesque outdoor landscape.

The cabin features a primary meditation area that benefits from extensive glass facades, allowing natural light to flood the interior and creating a visual relationship with the trees surrounding it. The strategic positioning of the cabin takes advantage of the sloped site, elevating the meditation experience while providing panoramic views of the forest. The layout encourages both solitude and social interaction, accommodating various meditation practices.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the "Mirror" project is its focus on blending with the environment. The use of mirrors and reflective surfaces enhances the connection to nature, creating visual continuity between the structure and its surroundings. This design strategy not only serves aesthetic purposes but also deepens the user's emotional and sensory engagement with the forest.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project's success. The cabin is constructed with locally sourced materials, including wood, glass, and stone, which pay homage to the environmental context. The wooden frame provides structural integrity and warmth, while the stone cladding adds texture and durability. Glass elements contribute to the overall transparency of the design, reinforcing the theme of reflection and interaction with nature.

Functional Elements

Key aspects of the design include the spacious meditation area, which is deliberately open to allow flexibility for different meditation practices. The large windows and skylights create an uplifting interior atmosphere that encourages mindfulness. The integration of a multifunctional podium allows for diverse uses, reinforcing the cabin’s purpose as a space for contemplation.

Furthermore, attention to environmental control measures ensures that the interior remains a comfortable space year-round. Insulation materials and vapor control layers are employed to manage temperature and humidity effectively.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural design and its nuanced details, including architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation. A closer examination reveals the careful consideration taken at each stage of this architecture project, showcasing innovative design ideas that contribute to a harmonious relationship between built space and the natural world.
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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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