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Tatami Accents and Central Garden in Modular Meditation Pods

Authors:
Marie christine Dimitri, Ersa Llakmani
Tatami Accents and Central Garden in Modular Meditation Pods

Project in-detail

With a design centered around energy crystal-shaped modular pods and a tranquil centralized garden, the project offers unique spaces for meditation and reflection within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modules arranged in a beehive configuration promote both individual privacy and community interaction.
02
A centralized garden serves as a calming focal point, enhancing user experience.
03
Energy crystal-inspired shapes create an inviting and unique architectural form.
04
Tatami floors provide a traditional touch that fosters a sense of tranquility.
05
Sustainable construction methods include recyclable and dismantlable materials for environmental sensitivity.

"The Garden Within" presents a series of modular pods designed to create tranquil spaces for meditation within an urban setting. These prefabricated structures stand alone, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The design concept focuses on establishing harmony between people and nature, emphasizing a layout that encourages reflection and well-being.

Spatial Configuration

The pods are arranged in a beehive-like pattern, which allows for both individual privacy and opportunities for communal interaction. This arrangement helps users find their own space while also promoting connections with others. By clustering the pods together, the design fosters a sense of community while accommodating diverse needs.

Centralized Garden

A prominent feature of the design is a centralized garden that serves as a calming focal point. This garden symbolizes spiritual fulfillment and invites users to engage in meditation and relaxation. Its natural elements enhance the visual appeal, creating a refreshing contrast to the urban surroundings and encouraging an experience of tranquility.

Architectural Form

The shape of the pods is inspired by energy crystals, characterized by gentle, flowing lines. The design aims to create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with users. The use of natural colors and patterns throughout contributes to a peaceful environment, making the spaces feel comforting and nurturing.

Material Considerations

Materials such as tatami floors, wooden accents, and warm tones are integrated into the interior design, drawing from traditional Japanese influences. These choices help create a soothing ambiance that supports well-being. The careful selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and enhances the overall experience within the pods.

Through attention to detail, the design offers features such as pitched roofs that promote privacy. The sustainable construction methods ensure a lasting connection with the environment, inviting users to appreciate both their surroundings and their own inner peace.

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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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