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Sound-Responsive Cabin With Concrete and Ceramic Elements for Emotional Expression

Author:
Carola Bona
Sound-Responsive Cabin With Concrete and Ceramic Elements for Emotional Expression

Project in-detail

With a unique system that transforms sound into light, the meditation cabin blends concrete and ceramic materials to create an intimate space for emotional expression in the urban setting of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin converts sound into visual light patterns that respond to user emotions.
02
Rough concrete and ceramic tiles create a tactile exterior and enhance emotional engagement.
03
A hidden door design invites curiosity while ensuring privacy for users.
04
Adjustable lighting and color therapy are integrated to support personalized emotional experiences.
05
The architecture reflects traditional Japanese design elements to evoke harmony and balance.

The meditation cabin presents a thoughtful approach to sound and emotional expression in the heart of Tokyo. It serves as a space for individuals to release their feelings freely, whether they are experiencing joy, sadness, stress, or frustration. The design combines the need for privacy with a powerful means of self-exploration, allowing users to engage with their emotions in a dedicated environment.

Design Concept

The cabin is designed as a private retreat amidst the fast-paced city life. Its purpose is to create a personal space where individuals can vocalize their emotions without the fear of judgment. The architecture encourages a direct interaction between sound and the surrounding environment, providing a unique setting for each person's emotional journey.

Materials and Aesthetics

An essential aspect of the cabin is its material choice. The exterior is covered in rough concrete and ceramic tiles arranged in an irregular pattern. This design choice reflects the complexities of daily life and aims to create an inviting atmosphere that promotes emotional engagement. The physical qualities of these materials enhance the overall look of the cabin while emphasizing its purpose.

Spatial Dynamics

Inside the cabin, sound turns into light, with an interactive system that responds to the user's voice. This connection creates an engaging experience that reflects the intensity of the emotions expressed. The lighting can be adjusted, and color therapy is incorporated to help influence mood. This focus on personalization allows users to create their own unique meditative experience.

Cultural Influences

The design also draws inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture, focusing on harmony and balance. The form of the cabin reflects these cultural references, bringing a sense of calmness to its urban context. A hidden door adds an element of curiosity, inviting users to explore while ensuring their privacy and personal space are preserved.

The interior promotes comfort and seclusion, encouraging deeper emotional reflection. Within this carefully designed space, users can safely express themselves, finding solace in their voices as they navigate their own emotional landscapes.

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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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