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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.

### Project Overview

Located in the rural Vidzeme region of Latvia, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is designed to support wellness tourism through meditation and holistic activities. The development integrates a historical stone barn constructed in 1875 with modern architectural interventions, creating a serene environment that connects visitors with the surrounding natural landscape. The camp aims to facilitate tranquility and mindfulness, catering to guests seeking an immersive experience in nature.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The architectural layout is strategically organized to differentiate between private and communal spaces while promoting ease of movement throughout the site. Key components include a yoga room that captures early morning light, a Silent Chamber designed for introspective practices, and guest accommodations that offer a range of private and shared options for up to 20 visitors. Open-plan kitchen and dining areas enhance communal living, encouraging interaction among guests.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project emphasizes materials that are both rustic and sustainably sourced to reinforce the connection to the environment. Wood is primarily used for structural elements and interior finishes due to its warmth and ecological advantages. Morror, a polished stainless steel, is selected for new volumes, reflecting the landscape and creating a dialogue between nature and built form. The design adheres to sustainable practices, such as maximizing natural light for passive heating and incorporating Vedic principles that promote ecological harmony. This comprehensive approach not only respects local cultural identity but also addresses broader sustainability goals.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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