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Translucent Panels and Elevated Spaces in a Sustainable Meditation Retreat

Author:
Gihad Saleh
Translucent Panels and Elevated Spaces in a Sustainable Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

With its elevated floor and translucent panels that gracefully intertwine with the natural landscape, this sustainable retreat offers a serene space for meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a flexible structure that adapts to varying weather conditions.
02
Translucent panels allow natural light to create a calming atmosphere while maintaining privacy.
03
An elevated floor design provides unique vistas of the surrounding Latvian landscape.
04
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability and adds an aesthetic dimension.
05
Solar panels are integrated seamlessly to support the building's energy needs sustainably.
The architectural design project titled "Meditation Contemplation" is situated in the serene landscape of Latvia, an environment that underscores the project’s core values of introspection and nature integration. This architectural endeavor represents a thoughtful response to contemporary societal issues, emphasizing a need for spaces that facilitate meditation, yoga, and personal reflection. Designed not just as a physical entity but as a sanctuary, the project encourages users to cultivate a deeper connection with their inner selves and the surrounding natural elements.

Functionally, "Meditation Contemplation" serves multiple purposes. It offers a dedicated space for individual meditation practices and group activities such as yoga sessions. The design emphasizes flexibility, intending to create an inviting atmosphere for varied forms of engagement. This versatility makes the space accessible and adaptable for different users, ensuring that it can accommodate personal experiences while also fostering community interaction.

At the heart of this project lies a significant architectural component known as "The Cocoon." This element embodies the primary meditation area and employs an innovative design approach that merges static and flexible structures. The cocoon’s static portion is constructed using a material that ensures stability and durability, while the flexible section utilizes translucent materials that allow natural light to filter through. This interaction between opacity and translucency creates a dynamic atmosphere within the space, enhancing the meditative experience by harmonizing indoor and outdoor environments.

The design also incorporates a raised floor, positioned 40 cm above the natural ground level. This elevation is more than a mere design choice; it significantly enhances the user's engagement with the landscape around them, allowing for a different perspective both when standing and seated. This thoughtful detail encourages mindfulness, promoting an awareness of the natural context and its shifting qualities throughout the day.

In terms of materiality, "Meditation Contemplation" takes an environmentally conscious approach. The selection of materials reflects sustainability without compromising aesthetic value. The use of opaque materials for the static sections ensures insulation and protection, while translucent materials serve to create an inviting atmosphere filled with natural light. Additional elements include wooden flooring, which not only provides visual warmth but also connects the structure with the surrounding nature. The project also integrates energy-efficient solutions, such as solar panels and internal heating systems, ensuring that it meets modern sustainability standards.

Unique design approaches characterize this project, specifically its focus on seamless integration with the natural environment. The architectural language used in "Meditation Contemplation" deliberately contrasts traditional designs with innovative spaces that evoke calmness and tranquility. It intentionally blurs the boundaries between built form and landscape, making it a holistic retreat for both individuals and groups.

The architectural plans and sections reveal careful consideration of spatial relationships within the structure, allowing for an emotional journey from the entrance to the meditation area. The design not only prioritizes aesthetic appeal but also emphasizes functional flow, ensuring that every aspect of the user experience is optimized for peace and reflection.

Exploring the architectural designs and innovative ideas behind "Meditation Contemplation" can provide further insights into the intentions and thought processes that shaped the project. Those interested are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections, as these elements reveal the meticulous craftsmanship and architectural clarity that define this thoughtful design endeavor. This project is not only a reflection of architectural prowess but also an invitation to experience the profound connection between space, nature, and the pursuit of inner peace.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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