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Silence Chamber And Floor-to-Ceiling Glass Panels Complement Restored Barn Retreat

Authors:
Deagan McDonald, Kelsey Nilsen
Silence Chamber And Floor-to-Ceiling Glass Panels Complement Restored Barn Retreat

Project in-detail

A silence chamber sits above a bridging creek, while an expansive use of floor-to-ceiling glass panels enhances the connection to nature in a restored barn, all designed to create a mindful retreat for communal and individual reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Silence chamber located above a bridging creek enhances mindful experiences.
02
Extensive use of floor-to-ceiling glass panels connects interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
03
Restoration of the original barn structure preserves historical character while integrating modern elements.
04
Bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views throughout the retreat.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to sustainable design by reducing maintenance needs.

## Overview

The project is located in a tranquil landscape characterized by woodlands and shallow water bodies, aiming to create spaces conducive to mindfulness, reflection, and a connection with nature. The design effectively integrates contemporary architectural elements with the existing natural environment, focusing on the relationship between the built and natural worlds.

### Spatial Strategy

A central theme of the design is the juxtaposition of solid and transparent elements, merging robust stone structures with light-capturing materials. The original barn structure has been restored, while new additions facilitate both communal and private interactions. Emphasizing minimalism, the design prioritizes open spaces that encourage community engagement alongside personal reflection. Notable spaces include a dedicated yoga area with ample natural light, a Silence Chamber situated above a bridged creek, and guest accommodations that promote interaction while ensuring comfort.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs an array of materials that harmonize with the surrounding environment. Stone serves as a grounding component for the barn’s exterior, while wood—used for ceilings and floors—adds warmth and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Large windows and translucent roof panels made of glass bridge indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the experience of the serene landscape. Structural steel complements the organic materials, contributing to the overall aesthetic. The design emphasizes sustainable practices through careful site planning, utilizing existing landscape features and promoting energy efficiency, thereby fostering a profound respect for both the environment and its users.

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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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