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Screw-Piled Retreat with Structural Insulated Panels for Mindful Living

Author:
Brian Richter
Screw-Piled Retreat with Structural Insulated Panels for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with structural insulated panels and supported by screw-piles, the design offers a flexible space for silent meditation, seamlessly integrating the indoor environment with the surrounding Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features structural insulated panels to optimize energy efficiency.
02
Screw-piles provide minimal site disturbance and establish a strong foundation.
03
Interior flexibility allows for multiple meditation configurations.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings.
05
The design emphasizes a seamless connection between interior and forest landscape.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabin is positioned in the quiet landscape of the Latvian countryside. Designed as a sanctuary for silent meditation, it aims to foster a deep connection with nature. The overall approach emphasizes the relationship between the structure and its surroundings, integrating natural elements into the architectural design to enhance the experience for users.

Structural Considerations

The construction relies heavily on structural insulated panels, commonly known as SIPs. This choice of material allows for a flexible and open interior layout. The panels facilitate efficient building practices while supporting a minimal design aesthetic. This creates spaces that can adapt to different activities, particularly those focused on meditation and reflection.



Construction Techniques

Modern fabrication methods, particularly large-format CNC routers, are employed to streamline the building process. This technology reduces the time required for on-site construction and makes effective use of materials. Additionally, secondary elements such as millwork and cabinetry provide functional variation, contributing to a layered interior experience.



Environmental Awareness

The design method takes into account the unique geologies of the Latvian landscape. By integrating dimensional lumber and screw-piles within the SIP framework, the structure connects firmly to the ground without needing traditional foundations. This approach minimizes disruption to the environment, aligning with sustainable principles throughout the design process.



Throughout the cabin, the arrangement of windows and open spaces invites natural light and offers views of the surrounding forest. This design detail encourages a dialogue between the interior and the landscape, supporting the goal of mindfulness and reflection.

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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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