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Reflective Space Framed by Wood and Fabric in Urban Harmony

Author:
Stephen Wong
Reflective Space Framed by Wood and Fabric in Urban Harmony

Project in-detail

A fabric-clad entrance invites visitors into a private meditation space framed by wood, offering a tranquil refuge within the bustling urban landscape of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
A fabric entrance inspired by traditional noren curtains enhances the transition from urban to tranquil.
02
Wooden screens create a warm, intimate environment for meditation and reflection.
03
The cabin features a modular design, allowing for easy assembly and adaptability in various urban settings.
04
Swing doors provide expansive views, connecting users with the surrounding environment.
05
Located on Ginkgo Avenue, the cabin integrates nature and urban life for a unique user experience.

The meditation cabin offers a dedicated space for rest and reflection in the urban environment of Tokyo. Positioned amidst the city’s hustle and bustle, it addresses the growing need for personal sanctuary. The design is focused on balancing communal interaction with individual contemplation. This architectural response promotes mental wellness through its thoughtful layout and features.

Design Functionality

The cabin features two distinct stages of rest. The external area is designed for communal sitting, allowing users to engage with the lively cityscape. This openness encourages social interaction while still providing a space for relaxation. Inside, the private meditation area serves individuals, fostering an environment conducive to introspection and mindfulness. This combination effectively meets the diverse needs of users seeking peace.

Architectural Features

A key element of the design is the entrance, inspired by traditional Japanese noren curtains. This fabric feature creates a welcoming transition from the busy outside world to a more tranquil interior. It plays an important role in helping people shift into a reflective mindset. This thoughtful design choice underscores the values of privacy and mindfulness that are central to the meditation experience.

Material Selection

Wood is the main material used throughout the cabin, contributing to a calming atmosphere. The use of natural materials helps forge a connection to nature, which is vital for creating a serene space. Inside, a wooden screen wall adds warmth and comfort, acting as a barrier that allows users to focus inward, free from exterior distractions.

Modular Design Approach

The cabin’s modular structure adds to its adaptability. Constructed for easy assembly and potential expansion, this design allows the cabin to function in a variety of urban contexts. This flexibility is important in today’s changing cities, where peaceful places for rest are increasingly needed.

The design emphasizes the relationship between light and space. Swing doors at both ends of the cabin open up to provide expansive views, creating a connection with the outside while maintaining a sense of calm within.

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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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