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Timber Cabin Emphasizing Rainwater Collection and Natural Light for Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Hong Chen, Eva Huang
Timber Cabin Emphasizing Rainwater Collection and Natural Light for Mindful Retreat

Project in-detail

Integrated rainwater collection and traditional oak joinery define a meditation cabin in the Latvian wilderness, creating an environment that fosters mindfulness and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rainwater is collected through a central ring made of washi acrylic paper.
02
The cabin features traditional mortise and tenon joinery for structural integrity.
03
Five distinct tatami mat areas cater to various meditation-related activities.
04
Natural light dominates the interior, guided by strategically placed skylights.
05
The elevated platform design enhances the connection to the surrounding landscape.

The meditation cabin, located in the calm Latvian wilderness, is designed for Vipassana meditation. The structure focuses on creating a strong connection between the natural surroundings and the interior space. With the aim of promoting mindfulness, the design incorporates thoughtful organization and the use of light, which together foster a peaceful environment.

Spatial Organization

Inside the cabin, a raised tatami mat floor supports five different areas for essential activities. These areas are designated for sleeping, eating, meditation, tea brewing, and reading. Each space invites the inhabitants to flow from one activity to another, encouraging a natural rhythm in daily life. The arrangement highlights a holistic approach to meditation, allowing for both personal reflection and communal sharing.

Natural Light

Natural light is key to the cabin’s design. A skylight brings daylight into the heart of the space. Large openings draw the afternoon sun, illuminating the interior during the day. This careful arrangement of light creates a welcoming atmosphere that enhances focus and clarity. It aligns with the goals of meditation by offering a calming, bright space that feels alive and connected to the outside world.

Sustainable Practices

The cabin integrates a rainwater collection system through a central ring made of washi acrylic paper. This feature serves practical purposes, such as providing water for washing hands and dishes. It also represents a commitment to environmental responsibility. By using rainwater, the design builds a connection not just with the architecture but also with the landscape, promoting a sense of sustainability.

Craftsmanship

Traditional joinery techniques are highlighted throughout the design. The cabin uses mortise and tenon joints, connecting oak wood beams without the need for nails. This method reflects skilled craftsmanship and adds to the cabin’s aesthetic appeal. The way the wood pieces fit together creates a visually interesting pattern, enhancing the overall experience of the space.

The cabin’s thoughtful details, from the arrangement of living spaces to the careful use of natural light, support a tranquil environment, inviting individuals to engage fully in their meditation practice.

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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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