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Seasonal Adaptation Through Local Stone and Sustainable Spruce in a Community Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Anthony Harrington, Emmanuelle Thion, Maja Mrdalj
Seasonal Adaptation Through Local Stone and Sustainable Spruce in a Community Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from local stone and sustainably sourced spruce, the design seamlessly adapts to seasonal changes, providing an immersive environment for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted to acknowledge seasonal changes, the design incorporates flexible spaces that adapt throughout the year.
02
Utilizes locally sourced materials, including stone and sustainably harvested spruce, to integrate with the landscape.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability while creating open interior spaces.
04
Incorporates large windows to maximize natural light and foster a connection with the surrounding environment.
05
The project includes community gardens and outdoor yoga platforms, encouraging interaction and wellness among visitors.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp, located in Latvia, represents a thoughtful synthesis of traditional architecture and modern design principles. This project is focused on creating a tranquil environment that facilitates meditation and community engagement. The design integrates local cultural elements and ecological considerations, making it not only a place for individual reflection but also a space that fosters communal interactions.

The primary function of the camp is to serve as a retreat for meditation practitioners. It incorporates various spaces tailored for meditation sessions, group activities, and solitary reflection. The meditation room stands at the center of the design, designed to promote tranquility through carefully managed natural light, sound, and privacy. Surrounded by open communal areas and serene landscapes, this configuration creates a peaceful setting conducive to introspection and mindfulness.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design showcases several innovative approaches that distinguish it from typical meditation facilities. Firstly, there is a strong emphasis on utilizing local materials. The project incorporates Norway Spruce and Scots Pine for cladding and structural elements, along with local stone to enhance durability and visual connection with the site. This choice not only respects local craftsmanship but also encourages sustainability.

The design considers seasonal adaptations, offering different experiences depending on the time of year. The outdoor yoga platforms and community gardens provide engaging spaces in the summer, while the bathhouse sauna caters to winter needs, reflecting traditional Latvian sauna culture. The thoughtful organization of the spaces includes pathways that guide visitors through the natural surroundings, promoting exploration and deeper connection with the environment.

Architectural sections and plans illustrate how the spaces relate to each other and the natural landscape, creating a functional flow that balances solitude and community. The integration of large windows in common areas allows for ample natural light while maintaining outdoor views, enhancing the overall experience of the retreat.

Exploring the architectural details, including the layout and material choices, offers insights into the methodology behind the design. The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is a carefully crafted project that exemplifies a holistic approach to architecture, where form, function, and environment are intricately connected.

For a deeper understanding of this project, consider reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail the specific elements and ideas behind this architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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