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Reflective Metal Cladding and Laminated Glass Enveloped in Natural Wood for a Meditative Retreat

Authors:
Rana El dakkak, Ola Ziad, Samira Chahine
Reflective Metal Cladding and Laminated Glass Enveloped in Natural Wood for a Meditative Retreat

Project in-detail

Reflective metal cladding and laminated glass envelop natural wood elements to create a cabin that serves as a tranquil retreat for meditation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective metal cladding protects nearby wildlife from collisions while enhancing the structure's visibility.
02
Laminated glass panels provide expansive views while maintaining energy efficiency.
03
Rainwater harvesting system allows sustainable water use throughout the year.
04
Use of hard beech and locally sourced silver beech wood supports environmental sustainability.
05
Interior elements, such as cedar finishes, enhance sensory experiences through natural aromas.
The Floating Cabin is an architectural project designed to create a retreat that fosters mindfulness and connection with nature. Nestled in a natural landscape, the cabin emphasizes sustainability through careful material selection and innovative design features. By providing a serene environment for meditation and introspection, this project aims to enhance the experience of living harmoniously within the wilderness.

The Floating Cabin demonstrates a thoughtful approach to spatial organization, featuring an open-plan layout that connects various functional areas. The use of large glass panels invites natural light into the interior, creating a fluid transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. The strategic placement of windows not only provides panoramic views but also allows for effective natural ventilation. This design enables occupants to engage with the natural surroundings, thus enhancing their experience of the space.

Innovative Material Selection and Sustainability

One of the unique aspects of The Floating Cabin is its deliberate choice of materials designed to promote both durability and ecological responsibility. Notable materials used in the project include reflective metal cladding, laminated glass, hard beech wood, silver beech wood for roof cladding, cedar wood for interior finishes, and kauri wood for the flooring. This combination not only offers aesthetic appeal but also aligns with sustainability goals through the use of local materials where possible.

A distinctive feature of the design is its rainwater harvesting system. This initiative collects rainwater from the roof and stores it in an underground tank, allowing for practical water use throughout the year. The incorporation of outdoor elements like bird feeders enhances interactions with wildlife, promoting a sense of tranquility among occupants.

Design Elements and Functional Spaces

The functional areas within The Floating Cabin are meticulously designed to support its primary purpose as a meditative retreat. The principle spaces include areas for meditation, preparation, and relaxation, each contributing to the overall experience of mindfulness. The interior finishes employ cedar wood, providing a warm aesthetic and pleasant aroma that adds to the sensory experience.

Noteworthy is the inclusion of architectural details like a fireplace and bird baths, designed to create focal points that improve the quality of engagement with the surroundings. These elements not only serve practical needs but also reinforce the themes of connecting with nature and promoting stillness.

For those interested in a more in-depth look at The Floating Cabin, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of this project’s innovative approach to architecture and design. Engage with the materials and functionalities that define this retreat for an enriching exploration of its features.
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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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