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Tatami Retreat with Solar-Powered Kitchenette for Mindful Living

Authors:
Daniel Aw, Rikjan Scholten, Liana Arpinte, Margarita Vogatzi
Tatami Retreat with Solar-Powered Kitchenette for Mindful Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a tatami interior and powered by solar energy, the cabin in Ozolini offers a dedicated space for mindfulness and personal reflection within the serene Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tatami interior enhances sensory engagement and promotes mindfulness.
02
Solar-powered kitchenette supports sustainable living practices.
03
Flexible space design allows for multifunctional use and personal rituals.
04
Elevated platform offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Located in Ozolini, emphasizing connection to nature and tranquility.

The design in Ozolini, Latvia, focuses on creating a retreat for self-discovery and personal reflection. Set against the backdrop of the Latvian landscape, the cabin serves as a tranquil space for its occupants. The concept is centered on mindfulness and inviting interaction with the surrounding nature, encouraging individuals to engage in personal rituals and reflection.

Design Concept and Layout

The cabin features a multi-level layout that supports different forms of introspection. Upon entry, visitors find a multifunctional area where essential elements such as the bed and toilet can be rearranged or hidden away. This flexibility promotes a smooth transition from daily activities to moments of meditation, allowing for a calm and focused atmosphere.

Materials and User Experience

A significant choice in the design is the softly woven tatami 'carpet', which adds a tactile quality to the interior. This material fosters a warm and welcoming environment, encouraging occupants to feel connected to their surroundings. The presence of tatami not only enhances comfort but also ties back to traditional practices that emphasize mindfulness and awareness of one’s space.

Sustainability and Independent Living

A noteworthy feature is the solar-powered kitchenette, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices. This kitchen area provides vital amenities while reducing ecological impact. It enables occupants to prepare local teas and promotes a connection with natural resources, blending practicality with an environmentally conscious approach.

Views and Connection to Nature

The uppermost platform offers views of the surrounding area, linking the cabin to the sky and treetops. This elevated perspective allows for both an expansive feeling and a stronger connection to nature. The design encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the landscape, creating a peaceful setting that supports introspection and contemplation.

Light filters through the trees, casting gentle shadows within the space. It highlights the textures and colors of the interior throughout the day, creating a dynamic environment that evolves with the changing sunlight.

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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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