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Translucent Glass Bricks and Reflective Surfaces in a Small Meditation Retreat

Author:
Hui Guo
Translucent Glass Bricks and Reflective Surfaces in a Small Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with translucent glass bricks and a reflective pyramid, the cabin creates a serene environment for meditation, emphasizing sensory engagement and introspection within its intimate space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation cabin designed as an extension of the human body.
02
Translucent glass bricks create dynamic light patterns throughout the interior.
03
Reflective pyramid element enhances spatial experience and visual intrigue.
04
Walls are designed to engage touch, providing sensory interaction.
05
Interior layout promotes inward focus and minimizes distractions.

The Meditation Cabin serves as a quiet retreat, designed to encourage connection with the surrounding environment. Situated in a peaceful area, it functions as a space for meditation and reflection. The design concept revolves around the idea that the cabin is an extension of the human body, enriching the sensory experience and emotional connection for its users.

Conceptual Framework

The design integrates various forms that work in harmony to create a sense of bodily extension. When entering the cabin, people find themselves in a space where the roof symbolizes the head, and the windows act as eyes, allowing light to enter gently. The walls invite touch, providing a cool sensation, while the ground fosters a feeling of being anchored to the earth. Each of these elements is thoughtfully arranged to promote safety and introspection, similar to the protective environment of a womb.

Materiality

The choice of materials significantly shapes the atmosphere within the Meditation Cabin. Translucent glass bricks feature prominently, allowing light to disperse throughout the interior. This effect not only creates a warm and inviting space but also connects users visually with the outside world. The design includes a reflective pyramid element that draws the eye upward, enhancing the interaction between light and space.

Spatial Dynamics

The arrangement of space within the cabin is designed to stimulate the senses and promote a meditative atmosphere. The exterior, characterized by its soft appearance, allows light and shadows to play across surfaces, contributing to a serene setting. Architectural features are strategically placed to support relaxation and mindfulness. Together, these elements work to encourage deep reflection away from the distractions of everyday life.

Inward Focus

The design places a strong emphasis on personal contemplation. Openings and reflective surfaces direct attention inward, inviting users to explore their thoughts and emotions. The interior layout is simple and unobtrusive, promoting a sense of calm. This thoughtful configuration encourages occupants to engage fully with their inner selves, making the cabin an effective space for meditation and quietude.

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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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