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Translucent Insulation and Straw Construction Envelop Meditative Spaces in Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Zeljka Pavlinovic, Borna Pavicic, Hrvoje Magdic
Translucent Insulation and Straw Construction Envelop Meditative Spaces in Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Utilizing translucent insulation and sustainable straw construction, the design integrates meditation pods seamlessly into the landscape, facilitating a tranquil environment for individual and communal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes straw construction techniques for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Features circular water bodies that support local ecosystems and enhance site aesthetics.
03
Incorporates translucent insulation to optimize natural light while maintaining energy efficiency.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to create dynamic spatial experiences within meditation areas.
05
Integrates renewable energy systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, for self-sufficiency.

### Overview

The Meditation Cloud is situated within a tranquil natural landscape, designed as a dedicated meditation center that emphasizes ecological sustainability and functionality. The project aims to connect individuals with nature, promoting personal reflection and a sense of community through its architectural form and spatial organization.

### Spatial Integration and Landscape Design

The site layout is carefully arranged into distinct areas, featuring designated pathways and circular water elements that guide visitors through the environment. Central to the design are various water features, which enhance the site’s aesthetic value while supporting local biodiversity. Meditation pods and halls are thoughtfully distributed across the landscape, allowing users to experience both solitude and a connection to the natural surroundings. The design facilitates smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering an immersive meditative experience.

### Material Selection and Architectural Details

Material choice plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the center. Notable materials include straw for roofing to provide natural insulation, translucent insulation that balances light and thermal efficiency, and a wooden structure that aligns with the local architectural vernacular. Innovative features such as Rigstop fabric in meditation chambers enhance versatility, and double-glazed windows are utilized to optimize energy performance while offering unobstructed views. The design also incorporates natural ventilation strategies to minimize reliance on mechanical systems, ensuring comfort through the effective use of cross-ventilation.

The Meditation Cloud is characterized by its sustainable practices, including the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar panels and biomass systems. The landscape incorporates vegetable gardens, blending agricultural elements with meditative spaces. Attention to ecological preservation is paramount, as the site adapts to and incorporates existing flora and fauna. The architectural concept embodies a symbolic “Levitating Cloud,” serving both as a visual centerpiece and a metaphor for spiritual elevation, thereby enhancing the overall user experience within the meditation center.

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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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