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Sky-Lit Timber Retreats Embracing Nature and Solitude

Authors:
John Myefski, Christopher Myefski, Ellis Wills-begley, Aniella Goldinger
Sky-Lit Timber Retreats Embracing Nature and Solitude

Project in-detail

Constructed with timber and plywood, the cabins offer a sky-lit meditation platform that fosters solitude and connection to nature within a serene forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from plywood and timber.
02
Features a central core for multifunctional use.
03
Includes a sky-lit meditation platform.
04
Operable walls allow for indoor-outdoor interaction.
05
Centrally located between Lake Bezdibene and Ozolini buildings.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins are located between Lake Bezdibene and the Ozolini buildings. They aim to provide spaces for exploration, solitude, and reflection. The design focuses on creating an environment that enhances internal balance in a world that often feels overwhelming. Each cabin is carefully positioned to encourage engagement with the natural surroundings while providing a peaceful retreat for meditation and contemplation.

Architectural Concept
At the heart of the design is the idea of connecting the built environment with nature. The cabins invite occupants to explore their surroundings, allowing for moments of introspection. The layout of each cabin offers a range of experiences, where users can choose between complete exposure to nature or a more secluded setting. This flexibility adds to the overall comfort and appeal of the space.

Structural Configuration
A central core forms the backbone of the design, accommodating essential functions such as sleeping, cooking, and creating. Above this core is a sky-lit platform dedicated to meditation. The multifunctional nature of the core supports various activities, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and tranquility in this setting.

Materiality and Environmental Integration
The materials chosen for the cabins reflect a commitment to sustainability. Plywood and timber are used, which offer effective maintenance while also minimizing environmental impact. By selecting these accessible materials, the cabins blend with the landscape. This choice reinforces the bond between human-made structures and the natural world.

Spatial Interaction
Operable walls and windows give each cabin a dynamic quality, allowing for a transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These features enable natural light and airflow to enter, enhancing the comfort of the interiors. The thoughtful design encourages a close relationship with nature, underscoring the key ideas of serenity and self-discovery.

The meditation platform, situated above the core, provides unobstructed views of the sky. This creates an ideal setting for quiet reflection amid the calming presence of the forest.

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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

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