Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Serene Timber Retreat Embracing Natural Light and Quiet Reflection

Authors:
Chira Amnuaysit, Wigunda Seekong, Polpat Nilubon, Sesinee Nimsuwan
Serene Timber Retreat Embracing Natural Light and Quiet Reflection

Project in-detail

Combining modular timber construction with the soothing sounds of temple bells, the design creates a serene space for meditation and reflection in the heart of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows flexibility in adapting to various urban spaces.
02
Incorporates natural light and sound elements from surrounding environments.
03
Timber construction enhances warmth and tactile experience for users.
04
Cabin expands from a one-square-meter unit for personalized space.
05
Reflects traditional Japanese practices through cultural integration.

The Tokyo Meditation Cabin is located in the busy urban setting of Tokyo, designed to create a peaceful space for reflection amidst the city's rapid pace. It aims to respond to the demands of modern life, providing an area where individuals can slow down and reconnect with themselves. The overall concept focuses on fostering mindfulness through specific spatial designs that address the challenges of urban living.

Modular Design

The prototype is based on a core unit measuring one square meter, allowing for flexible expansion into two, three, or more units based on site characteristics. This modular approach helps the structure adapt to various urban contexts, turning underused spaces into locations for meditation and contemplation. It emphasizes a design that changes with its environment, making connections to the surrounding area.

Integration of Natural Elements

The design also carefully incorporates elements from nature and cultural practices. Natural light, temperature shifts, and the sound of temple bells contribute to creating a calming environment that encourages meditation. The relationship with these natural features enhances the user experience, reinforcing the goal of providing a serene space in the midst of a bustling city.

Material Considerations

In terms of materials, the Tokyo Meditation Cabin primarily uses timber and fabric. The warmth of timber helps to create a welcoming atmosphere, while fabric elements add comfort and intimacy. These materials are chosen for their ability to connect users to their environment, supporting the overarching intention of the design.

User Interaction

The project places significant importance on community engagement. By utilizing transitional spaces, the cabin aims to encourage interactions among individuals while still allowing for personal moments of solitude. This combination of shared experiences and quiet reflection enriches the overall use of the cabin, promoting mindfulness in an otherwise hectic environment.

The design includes openings that let natural light enter, casting changing patterns throughout the day. These variations invite users to experience time differently, fostering a state of calm and contemplation within the urban landscape. The thoughtful design details guide users into a more reflective mindset, creating a welcome sanctuary that contrasts with the surrounding activity.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy