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Timber Cabins Featuring Wool Insulation and Organic Forms for Mindful Retreats

Authors:
Hui meng Tuang, Pooventhiran P sangar, Hon sing Yong
Timber Cabins Featuring Wool Insulation and Organic Forms for Mindful Retreats

Project in-detail

Cabins crafted with durable timber and enhanced by wool insulation harness organic forms to create serene spaces for meditation and reflection within a tranquil forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and natural weather resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight design.
03
Each cabin represents a distinct state of consciousness based on the Gunas philosophy.
04
Wool insulation is employed for thermal performance and environmental sustainability.
05
Organic forms of the cabins blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest landscape.
The project "The Apple of Ozolini" is a series of meditation cabins designed to promote mental well-being through exposure to nature. Located in the tranquil forest of Ozolini, the architecture seeks to establish a relationship between human experience and the natural environment, offering a space for reflection and mindfulness. Each cabin is distinctly shaped and color-coded to reflect various states of consciousness and meditation as articulated through the concept of Gunas—Rajas, Tamas, and Sattva.

The architecture utilizes simple, organic forms that resonate with the surrounding landscape. The design integrates sustainable practices into its function, prioritizing minimal environmental impact while enhancing user experience. Each cabin serves as an individual retreat, focusing on providing an atmosphere conducive to meditation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

Unique Design Approaches
The project differentiates itself through its philosophical underpinning, drawing from the concept of Gunas, which categorizes human behavioral types and serves as a framework for meditation practice. Each cabin—red for Rajas, gray for Tamas, and the calming space of Sattva—encourages users to connect with their internal state and the environment.

Material selection plays a key role in the design, with sustainable options being a priority. The use of timber for wall panels and floor structures aligns with the project's focus on natural materials. Wool insulation is employed for thermal performance, while aluminum is used for rainwater harvesting systems. Mild steel and reinforced concrete provide structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight feel. Such thoughtful material usage not only conforms to aesthetic goals but also reinforces environmental responsibility, as each element supports sustainability.

Architectural details, including window placement for natural light and optimized airflow for cross-ventilation, enhance the user experience while reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The designs prioritize visual and physical connections with the surroundings, allowing inhabitants to immerse themselves in the tranquility of Ozolini's forest environment.

Functional Intentions
The interior zoning of each cabin facilitates different activities, offering spaces designated for meditation, relaxation, and storage. The circular layouts encourage fluid movement within the cabin, aligning with the intended function of reflection and serenity. The overall design resists clutter, emphasizing simplicity and functionality to maintain an environment conducive to meditation.

In exploring the architectural designs, plans, and sections of "The Apple of Ozolini," observers will discover how these elements are cohesively integrated to establish an immersive retreat experience. We invite you to delve into the project presentation to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its architectural strategies and design methodologies.
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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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