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Sunken Meditation Spaces Crafted from Local Stone and Natural Wood Elements

Authors:
Stewart Schuetze, Sandra Benitez, Lam Jonathan Tran
Sunken Meditation Spaces Crafted from Local Stone and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Crafted from local stone and warm wood, the design integrates sunken meditation spaces that draw guests into a serene environment dedicated to reflection and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation spaces are sunken to enhance tranquility and connection with nature.
02
Local stone is extensively used to ensure harmony with the environment.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer improved durability and aesthetic contrast.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the camp.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is an architectural project designed to serve as a sanctuary for meditation, reflection, and personal growth. Located in a serene natural environment, the camp features a series of interconnected buildings that promote both individual introspection and communal interaction. The design prioritizes sustainability, with an emphasis on integrating the structures harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.

The project includes a guest accommodation facility with three buildings housing a total of 20 suites. Each suite is designed to provide comfort and privacy, catering to visitors seeking solitude or rejuvenation. Communal areas, such as dining facilities and relaxation zones, are strategically placed to facilitate social connections among guests while allowing ample opportunities for personal reflection. The spatial organization reflects a careful balance of public and private spaces, ensuring that each area serves its intended purpose effectively.

Unique Features of the Design

A defining aspect of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is its thoughtful use of materials and architectural elements that enhance the meditative experience. Local stone is employed extensively throughout the project, providing durability and a rustic aesthetic that aligns with the natural surroundings. The use of wood, possibly cedar or pine, in interior spaces contributes warmth and comfort, essential for a relaxing atmosphere.

The project also integrates recycled metal panels for roofing and cladding, emphasizing sustainability without compromising aesthetic value. Glass elements are used to create a strong connection to the exterior environment, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors and offering views of the landscape. This design choice promotes a sense of openness and encourages a continuous interaction with nature.

Another unique aspect is the incorporation of framed meditation spaces that allow for various viewpoints, enabling guests to engage with their surroundings in diverse ways. Sunken courts within the camp serve as quiet retreats, facilitating outdoor meditation and relaxation. These thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces create atmospheric contrasts, connecting architecture with nature and allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the experience.

Design Outcomes and Sustainability

The architectural design of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp features innovative sustainability practices that enhance its environmental integrity. Solar energy panels installed on rooftops provide renewable energy, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Water collection systems are integrated into the roof design to capture rainwater, supporting the camp's operational needs and minimizing water waste.

Natural ventilation is another significant consideration in the design, with strategically placed openings that promote airflow and reduce the need for mechanical cooling. This approach not only improves the comfort of the spaces but also aligns with sustainable building practices.

In summary, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp exemplifies an architectural design that prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and user experience. The careful selection of materials, the innovative layout, and the consideration of environmental impact all contribute to a cohesive project that stands apart in its field. For a comprehensive understanding of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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