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Timber Cabins with Garden Thresholds for Reflective Retreats

Authors:
Frank Romero, Jacob Schneck, Ryan Goold, Aaron Grunwald
Timber Cabins with Garden Thresholds for Reflective Retreats
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Timber cabins with traditional wood joinery and garden thresholds create a serene setting for meditation, emphasizing a deep connection to the surrounding forest and river valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber structure allows seamless integration with the surrounding environment.
02
Garden thresholds enhance sensory engagement with nature.
03
Flexible interiors accommodate varied meditation styles.
04
Strategic placement maximizes views of the river valley.
05
Traditional wood joinery reflects regional craftsmanship.

Prospect & Refuge Meditation Cabins are located on a sloping terrace that provides views of a river valley. The design aims to create a calm and restorative environment for meditation. By blending architecture with nature, the cabins enhance the visitor experience and promote relaxation. The main ideas behind the project focus on feelings of safety and connection to the landscape, guiding visitors from outside to spaces meant for quiet reflection.

Architecture Concept

The concept behind the cabins combines the ideas of safety and outward view. This balance allows visitors to move easily from the surrounding nature into the restful interiors of the cabins. The design provides private spaces while maintaining a link to the outside world. Each cabin has a flexible layout to suit different types of activities and personal preferences, ensuring that the spaces feel personal and inviting.

Design and Functionality

The arrangement of the cabins takes advantage of the hillside's natural features, which helps to maximize views towards the southwest. Three cabins extend toward the open landscape, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty around them. A fourth cabin is placed against a stone wall, creating a more intimate and focused area for meditation. Each cabin serves a specific purpose for visitors seeking peace and reflection, aligning with the goals of the nearby retreat.

Materiality

The materials used in the cabins feature a simple timber structure built with traditional wood joinery methods. This approach not only helps reduce environmental impact but also connects the design to local building traditions. The cabins are made to blend into the landscape, offering a sturdy yet welcoming presence without overpowering the natural surroundings.

Each cabin includes a garden threshold that invites visitors to transition from the outside world into a space for meditation and calm. The interiors are designed with sliding and rotating screens, allowing for flexibility that can adapt to various needs. This thoughtful design ensures that every visit results in a peaceful and healing connection to the environment.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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