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Reflective Steel Cladding and Charred Wood Define a Serene Meditation Retreat

Author:
Marta Leitane
Reflective Steel Cladding and Charred Wood Define a Serene Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Mirrored steel cladding reflects the surrounding landscape while charred wood accents enhance the rustic character of a purpose-built meditation retreat in the Latvian countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored steel cladding integrates the building with the landscape, enhancing visual connections.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while maintaining a rustic aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and structural integrity.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space for meditation and yoga activities.
05
Natural daylighting is maximized through strategic window placements, fostering a tranquil environment.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp in Latvia is an architectural project that effectively integrates the principles of wellness and connection to nature. Set in the rural Vidzeme region, this facility repurposes a historic stone barn while focusing on meditation, yoga, and holistic activities. The design centers on spatial organization and materiality, creating a cohesive environment conducive to mindfulness practices.

The meditation camp serves multiple functions, including spaces for yoga sessions, meditation, workshops, and accommodation for guests. Its layout thoughtfully distinguishes between private and communal areas, fostering both solitude and community engagement. The use of wood, stainless steel, and natural textiles throughout the facility underscores a commitment to sustainability while ensuring the aesthetic resonates with its natural surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

A key aspect of the project is its emphasis on sustainability woven into the architectural fabric. The building utilizes eco-friendly materials and design strategies, such as natural daylighting and passive heating, making it inherently energy-efficient. The mirrored surfaces that clad sections of the structure serve to reflect the landscape, creating a subtle yet powerful connection between the built environment and nature. This reflective quality is integral to the project's philosophy, highlighting notions of unity between the occupants and their surroundings.

The architectural plans include spaces like the Rising Sun Salutation Room, oriented to invite early morning light, and the Silent Chamber for introspective activities. Guest accommodations are designed in varied configurations, supporting both individual and communal experiences. The kitchen and dining areas promote interaction through open-plan designs, reinforcing the communal aspect of the project.

Architectural Details

The design reflects a careful selection of materials, particularly the combination of wood and stainless steel, which provides a contrast of warmth and modernity. Textural variety in finishes enhances the overall sensory experience within the interior spaces, aligning with the project’s focus on well-being. Local cultural elements are woven into the design, further enhancing the connection to the Latvian identity.

The integration of green building practices not only minimizes the environmental impact but also aligns with the broader principles of holistic living. This project exemplifies how architecture can effectively fulfill specific wellness functions while grounding itself in the local context.

Explore the project presentation to gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that contributed to the Stone Barn Meditation Camp. Such details offer a comprehensive view of how this architectural venture merges functionality with the natural environment.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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