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Spherical Retreats Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Thomas Gössler
Spherical Retreats Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and accented with charred wooden shingles, these spherical cabins provide an immersive retreat experience, skillfully designed to enhance silent meditation in a tranquil forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural stability and insulation.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Designed with a suspended structure to minimize land impact and blend seamlessly with the forest.
04
Features a modular internal layout that allows for flexible use as both meditation and living space.
05
Utilizes gravity lighting to provide ambient illumination without intrusive fixtures.

The project under analysis is a series of silent meditation cabins named "Focus." These cabins are designed to facilitate mindfulness practices in secluded natural settings. The architectural design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, creating an environment conducive to meditation. The cabins function primarily as individual retreat spaces, offering users a tranquil area to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with themselves and nature.

The design features a spherical form, which minimizes angles and straight lines, reducing visual distractions and promoting a sense of calm. This shape also enhances structural integrity while maximizing the use of internal space. Each cabin utilizes natural materials, primarily wood and metal, to blend into the surrounding environment seamlessly. The cabins are elevated or suspended, a design choice that fosters a closer connection with nature, allowing for views and natural light to permeate the interior.

The project's uniqueness lies in its approach to spatial organization and functional considerations. The interior space is configured to cater specifically to the needs of users engaging in meditation. Elements include comfortable, modular furniture that adapts for various uses, such as sitting or resting, and integrated storage solutions that keep the space clutter-free. Additionally, the cabins feature gravity light systems, designed to provide ambient illumination without being intrusive, thereby maintaining the serene atmosphere.

Sustainability is a key aspect of the "Focus" cabins. The design employs local materials and low-impact construction techniques that lessen environmental footprints. Modular components facilitate quick assembly and disassembly, underscoring the project’s commitment to ecological sensitivity. The overall structure is not only functional but also resonates with the principles of sustainable architecture, aiming to minimize the ecological impact while enhancing user experience.

For an in-depth exploration of the architectural designs, plans, and sections related to the "Focus" project, readers are encouraged to review the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative design approaches and architectural ideas.

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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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