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Sandstone Flooring and Birch Wood Serenity in a Compact Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Ahmed Emad, Adham Hafez, Eslam Ezzeldeen
Sandstone Flooring and Birch Wood Serenity in a Compact Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Emphasizing the tranquil harmony of birch wood and sandstone flooring, the design creates a compact sanctuary that facilitates deep meditation amid a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a glass ceiling that enhances the sky observation area, allowing for celestial engagement.
02
Interior walls are lined with white birch wood, contributing to a serene and calming atmosphere.
03
The compact design covers less than 14 square meters, maximizing functionality within a limited footprint.
04
Sandstone flooring provides a tactile connection to the earth and durability in the natural setting.
05
A dry toilet system promotes sustainability, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The project "Shades of Meditation" encapsulates a thoughtful reflection on architecture that harmonizes the built environment with nature, creating a retreat designed for introspection and tranquility. This small cabin is not merely a shelter; it represents a sanctuary for the mind and spirit, encouraging users to engage in meditation amid serene surroundings. The function of this architectural design is distinctly focused on fostering mindfulness, making it an essential space for those seeking to disconnect from the rigors of daily life and reconnect with themselves.

The design of the cabin includes several key components, each contributing to its overarching purpose. One of the most important features is the panoramic view area, which offers expansive vistas of the forest that envelops the retreat. This strategic positioning allows natural light to fill the space, enhancing the feeling of openness and connection to the outside world. Complementing this is the theatrical window view, which frames specific elements of nature, creating moments of visual engagement and reflection. The sky observation area is perhaps one of the most captivating elements, featuring a glass ceiling that draws occupants’ gaze upward, facilitating a celestial experience that further enriches their meditative practices.

In terms of materiality, the project employs a carefully selected palette that enhances both aesthetic appeal and functionality. White birch wood lines the interior walls, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere that promotes comfort. The brown birch wood on the exterior allows the cabin to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, wood further emphasizing a commitment to environmentally sensitive design. The use of double-sheeted glass for the windows maximizes views and light while providing robust insulation, thus ensuring occupants remain comfortable in all seasons. Additionally, the sandstone flooring and exterior steps provide a tactile experience that connects users to the earth, reinforcing the cabin’s foundational principles of harmony and balance.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The layout is compact, with a footprint of less than 14 square meters, demonstrating that efficiency does not need to compromise functionality. Every space within the cabin has been purposefully designed to facilitate different meditation practices and sensory experiences. For example, the kitchenette is minimalistic, suggesting a self-sufficient lifestyle without detracting from the meditative atmosphere. The incorporation of a dry toilet highlights a focus on sustainability, addressing ecological considerations while maintaining a high standard of comfort for users.

The architectural proportions are inspired by natural principles, specifically the Fibonacci sequence, which allows for a seamless flow within the space. This relationship between the design and natural patterns helps create a tranquil environment that encourages a sense of peace. Each angle and curve has been thoughtfully considered, resulting in spaces that feel instinctively right to navigate and occupy.

As you explore this project, consider examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into how these thoughtful choices contribute to the overall vision of "Shades of Meditation." The careful integration of architectural ideas with natural elements creates a unique retreat experience that invites users to engage more fully with their surroundings and themselves. Discover the subtleties of this architectural design and immerse yourself in the details that make it a notable example of contemporary architecture.
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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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