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Timber Retreat with Integrated Altar and Abundant Natural Light

Authors:
Catarina De abreu, Julia Aguadera, Jeremy Gaunt
Timber Retreat with Integrated Altar and Abundant Natural Light

Project in-detail

A dedicated altar integrated into a timber framework bathed in natural light creates a serene environment for meditation, reflecting a thoughtful design that emphasizes connection to nature and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dedicated altar for flowering essences integrated into storage wall.
02
Use of charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Large roof lights designed to maximize natural light without compromising privacy.
04
Thoughtfully planned outdoor storage to reduce distractions before meditation.
05
Timber framework emphasizes a strong connection to the surrounding forest.

The meditation space is designed to encourage deep thought and provide a place of refuge from daily life. Located in a forest, it promotes a strong connection to nature, allowing people to engage in quiet contemplation in a calming environment.

Natural Light and Spatial Experience

The design incorporates large panes of glass and strategically placed roof lights to bring in natural light. This feature brightens the interior and helps visitors feel more connected to the forest outside. The way light interacts with the space adds to the overall calming atmosphere.

Material Choices and Warmth

Warm wood surfaces are used throughout the meditation area, creating an inviting feel. These materials reflect the natural surroundings and enhance the overall experience. Choices made in the design focus on the emotional well-being of visitors, emphasizing the peaceful qualities of the setting.

Reducing Distractions

To help visitors focus, there are outdoor storage options for personal belongings. This allows them to leave distractions behind before entering the meditation area. Indoor storage is also included for any equipment needed for meditation. By keeping the environment uncluttered, the design encourages calmness and reflection.

Design Features and Engagement

A dedicated altar for flowering essences is incorporated into the design, providing a place for meditation practices. This feature serves as a focal point, inviting visitors to engage more fully with their experience. Overall, the design prioritizes user interaction, ensuring that the space supports mindfulness and personal reflection.

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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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