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Timber Stud Structure with Metal Mesh for Guided Reflection

Authors:
Eshani Patel, Nesma Hamouda, Michelle Lorenz
Timber Stud Structure with Metal Mesh for Guided Reflection

Project in-detail

A hexagonal meditation cabin with strategically placed timber studs and a metal mesh enclosure provides a tranquil space for reflection, seamlessly integrating into its forested surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal design promotes both individual and group meditation experiences.
02
Timber studs gradually expand to create a welcoming entry transition.
03
Metal mesh enclosure allows for natural ventilation and a connection to nature.
04
Interior walls and roof slope upward for expansive forest views.
05
Local materials enhance sustainability and contextual integration.

Guided Glade is a meditation cabin located in a calm clearing at Earth Energies Sanctuary. Designed to help visitors shift from the busy outside world to a serene space for reflection, it emphasizes the journey one experiences when approaching the cabin. The facade conceeds the interior, enhancing anticipation and intrigue as guests draw near.

Spatial Configuration

The cabin has a hexagonal shape, which allows for personal meditation areas and also accommodates group activities. This layout is both functional and efficient, helping to create distinct views of the natural landscape. The design encourages a sense of connection to the environment, aligning with the goal of promoting contemplation and peace.

Transitional Passage

Entering the cabin, visitors move through a transitional passage lined with timber studs. These vertical elements are arranged closely together and spread outward as they approach the entrance. This design choice highlights a direct relationship between the users and their surroundings, immersing them in the natural world before they step inside.

Interior Experience

Once inside, walls continue to open up, while the roof slopes upward toward two significant walls. This configuration allows for wide views of the forest, enhancing the feeling of space and light. The design invites visitors to relax and meditate, surrounded by the calming beauty of nature, making the experience both refreshing and introspective.

Material Selection

Local timber serves as the main building material, ensuring that the structure fits well within its environment. Additionally, a metal mesh enclosure is included to allow for natural ventilation, promoting comfort. These choices reflect a practical approach to sustainability and a commitment to blending with the landscape available near the sanctuary.

As one gazes upward, the sloping roof draws attention to the sky above, enhancing the cabin’s relationship with the forest. This thoughtful detail fosters a sense of tranquility, encouraging visitors to pause and reflect on their surroundings.

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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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