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Sculpted Silence in Natural Stone and Wood for Mindful Retreats

Author:
Marta Ostrowska
Sculpted Silence in Natural Stone and Wood for Mindful Retreats

Project in-detail

Crafted from local stone and warm oak, the retreat seamlessly blends into the forest while offering serene spaces for meditation and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone and oak to establish a genuine connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates a unique "Silence Chamber" designed to enhance meditation through soundproof construction and natural views.
03
Features large windows designed to frame specific outdoor vistas, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
04
Includes roof terraces that provide elevated perspectives of the forest, encouraging moments of reflection.
05
Focuses on sustainable practices by using eco-friendly materials and methods throughout the construction process.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp emerges as a thoughtful architectural project located in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia. This architectural design focuses on creating a space that fosters mindfulness and connection with nature. It represents an integration of built environment and natural elements, highlighting the significance of tranquility and introspection in a busy world. The project serves primarily as a retreat, providing a serene setting for meditation, reflection, and personal growth.

Functionally, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is designed to accommodate diverse activities centered on wellness and relaxation. The layout includes private rooms for overnight stays, communal areas for group activities, and dedicated spaces for meditation. Key features such as the "Silence Chamber," designed to be soundproof and oriented toward expansive natural views, offers users a sanctuary to deepen their meditative practices. The integration of these spaces allows for both solitude and community interaction, reflecting the dual nature of personal retreat and communal living.

Throughout the design, there is a strong emphasis on materiality. The project employs locally sourced stone and wood, grounding the structure within its context and ensuring that it harmonizes with the surrounding landscape. The stone walls provide a sense of permanence, while the warm oak wood elements contribute to a calming ambiance. Concrete is utilized for flooring and foundational elements, creating a solid base that complements the organic materials. Metal framing appears in certain design aspects, adding durability while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of open spaces.

Unique design approaches characterize this project, setting it apart from typical retreat architecture. The thoughtful zoning of spaces distinguishes between public and private, allowing users to experience a sense of freedom and exploration within the camp's boundaries. The incorporation of roof terraces and private balconies offers elevated views, facilitating an immersive experience with the lush surroundings. Moreover, large windows are strategically positioned to flood interiors with natural light, supporting the overall theme of openness and connection to nature.

The interior spaces focus on minimalism and functionality, intentionally designed to avoid clutter and distraction. Elements like green walls and natural wood finishes promote a refreshing atmosphere, further underscoring the project's emphasis on natural integration. In this environment, users are invited to unwind from the distractions of everyday life and engage deeply with their inner selves.

Culturally, the design reflects aspects of local heritage, notably through the symbolic use of the oak tree, which carries historical significance in Latvian mythology. This connection to local culture and tradition is thoughtfully woven into both material selection and overall design philosophy, enriching the experience for visitors.

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp stands as a compelling example of how architecture can serve as a facilitator for improved well-being, encouraging individuals to engage with their surroundings and themselves in meaningful ways. Its balanced approach to combining private introspection with community engagement speaks to a broader understanding of the role of space in fostering mental and emotional health.

For those interested in exploring the architecture of this project further, we encourage reviewing architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. Doing so will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin the Stone Barn Meditation Camp, illustrating how thoughtful design can create spaces that resonate profoundly with visitors and their experiences.
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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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