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Tranquil Cabin Blending Geometric Forms with Natural Elements

Authors:
Generoso Martín, María Hernández
Tranquil Cabin Blending Geometric Forms with Natural Elements

Project in-detail

Combining geometric forms with a focus on sustainability, this cabin provides a serene setting for meditation within the natural landscape of New Zealand.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with an access porch that promotes a meditative transition from the outside world.
02
Incorporates a potential altar for essential oils to enhance the sensory experience.
03
Utilizes geometric forms that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
04
Features a central fireplace for warmth and comfort during reflection periods.
05
Adopts a cradle-to-cradle approach focused on sustainability and ecological responsibility.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is located within the Earth Energies Sanctuary in New Zealand and functions as a space for meditation and introspection. Designed to connect with its natural environment, the cabin provides a tranquil atmosphere for its users. The concept emphasizes sustainability and a deep relationship with the land, focusing on creating a peaceful retreat.

Spatial Distribution

The cabin features a well-planned layout that includes an access porch, a meditation area, and a fireplace. The access porch serves as a transition space, allowing visitors to leave the outside world behind and prepare for a reflective experience. The meditation area is central to the cabin’s design, offering a serene environment supported by the warmth of a fireplace and the option for a small altar for essential oils. Each of these areas is designed to work together, enhancing the overall meditative experience.

Architectural Geometry

Geometric shapes play an important role in the design, creating a balance between structured elements and natural forms. Each facade—North, South, East, and West—is specifically designed to respond to varying light and environmental conditions. This approach optimizes natural light and encourages an interaction with the surrounding landscape. As a result, the design is not only visually appealing but also functional, allowing the cabin to fit comfortably within its setting.

Sustainability Approach

Incorporating a cradle-to-cradle lifecycle philosophy, the design prioritizes sustainability. The materials chosen for the cabin are selected for their potential to be reused or returned to the environment. This reduces the ecological impact of the structure. Furthermore, the project considers biological degradation timelines, reflecting an understanding of how materials can contribute to long-term environmental health.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin also draws inspiration from the natural world, specifically the interconnectedness seen in cherry trees. Similar to how these trees provide for various forms of life, the cabin aims to support users while respecting the ecosystem. The varied textures throughout the space invite interaction and reinforce the connection between the occupants and the beautiful landscape that surrounds them.

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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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