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Spherical Retreat Crafted from Wood and Clay for Mindful Meditation

Authors:
Agata Kycia, Antoine Richard
Spherical Retreat Crafted from Wood and Clay for Mindful Meditation

Project in-detail

Crafted with a spherical roof and natural materials like wood and clay, the design creates an immersive environment for meditation, fostering a deep connection to the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a circular meditation room to enhance spiritual focus.
02
Features a porous outer envelope for natural ventilation and sun shading.
03
Utilizes natural insulation elements to create a grounded atmosphere.
04
Incorporates essential facilities designed for minimal distraction.
05
Integrates rainwater collection systems to promote sustainability.

The Ananda Meditation Cabin is designed to provide a peaceful retreat set within the quiet forests of Latvia. It serves as a space for meditation, focusing on mindfulness and a deep connection with nature. The design concept prioritizes tranquility and introspection, allowing individuals to escape the demands of everyday life and find solace.

Geometric Form and Layout

At the heart of the cabin is a circular meditation room. This shape encourages a sense of unity, helping individuals feel connected with both their inner selves and the surrounding environment. The circular layout is not just about aesthetics; it enhances the flow of energy and promotes a calming atmosphere, making it easier for occupants to enter a meditative state.

Natural Integration and Materiality

The construction is primarily in wood, reflecting local building traditions while minimizing the environmental footprint. The building's outer envelope is designed to be porous, permitting air to flow naturally and offering protection from direct sunlight. This thoughtful design approach emphasizes the relationship between the cabin and its forest setting, allowing light and nature to interact in meaningful ways throughout the day.

Lighting and Atmosphere

Inside, the cabin features a spherical ceiling that opens to let in soft, diffused light. This design creates an inviting atmosphere that supports the meditation process. The walls are insulated with natural materials, contributing to a warm and grounded feeling within the space. This combination of light and natural elements creates an environment ideal for reflection and calm.

Functional Design Elements

Ananda Cabin includes essential facilities such as dry toilets, showers, and sinks, all integrated smoothly into the overall design. These features are kept simple to ensure that the focus remains on the meditative experience rather than on luxuries. Each area in the cabin supports the primary goal of self-exploration and renewal, providing a space that feels both functional and serene.

The use of natural materials, careful attention to lighting, and an emphasis on a calming atmosphere come together to create an environment where meditation can thrive. Practitioners can engage fully in their practice while being surrounded by the beauty and peace of the Latvian forest. The design reflects a commitment to connecting individuals with nature and nurturing a sense of wellbeing.

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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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