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Translucent Polycarbonate Cabins Elevated Above the Forest Floor for Mindful Reflection

Authors:
Valerija Denisova, Kiwon Hong
Translucent Polycarbonate Cabins Elevated Above the Forest Floor for Mindful Reflection

Project in-detail

Elevated polycarbonate cabins utilizing local timber provide a serene environment for meditation while minimally impacting the surrounding forest ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ground disruption, enhancing ecological balance.
02
Translucent polycarbonate panels optimize natural light while maintaining privacy.
03
Localized materials reduce transportation footprint and support community resources.
04
Retractable entrance staircase engages users in the cabin experience.
05
Fireplace incorporates natural stone for efficient heating and aesthetic integration.
General Description

The Silent Mediation Forest Cabins project is an architectural initiative focused on creating an immersive retreat environment within forest landscapes. This design aims to establish a harmonious relationship between people and nature, providing spaces designed specifically for meditation and reflection. By raising the cabins above the forest floor, the project minimizes environmental impact while allowing the ecosystem beneath to thrive. The structures’ façades utilize polycarbonate panels, which facilitate natural light infiltration while ensuring thermal insulation, thus promoting comfort and sustainability.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the core design strategies involves the use of locally sourced materials and sustainable practices, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility. The cabins feature an elevated platform, which serves to protect the delicate forest floor and maintain natural drainage patterns. The inclusion of a retractable entrance staircase encourages an interactive approach to accessing the cabin, enhancing user engagement and experience.

In terms of design aesthetics, the cabins draw inspiration from traditional architectural forms, notably gabled roofs, while reinterpreting them with contemporary materials and transparency. This blend of architectural language helps the structures to integrate into their surroundings seamlessly. Additionally, the project employs double-sided solar panels for energy generation, reinforcing its orientation toward renewable resources and off-grid functionality.

Functional Aspects

Each cabin comprises a multifunctional living space designed to accommodate various meditation practices. Essential amenities such as a kitchenette and a dry toilet are incorporated without compromising the minimalist ethos of the design. The intentional layout encourages both solitary reflection and communal experiences, making the cabins versatile for various user needs. A central fireplace provides warmth, emphasizing the cabin's role as a comfortable and inviting retreat.

Overall, the Silent Mediation Forest Cabins represent a thoughtful exploration of architecture that harmonizes with nature while serving specific user needs. For those interested in more details about the project, the architectural plans, sections, and designs offer further insights into the concepts and execution involved in creating these innovative structures. Explore the project presentation to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and functional design elements that define this initiative.
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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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