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Translucent Serenity Achieved With Low-Iron Glass and GluLam Framework in a Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Yihang Wang, Xiaoman Sun
Translucent Serenity Achieved With Low-Iron Glass and GluLam Framework in a Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

A harmonious blend of low-iron glass and glue-laminated timber creates a tranquil retreat that fosters mindfulness and reflection among the serene surroundings of nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin utilizes a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity while maximizing interior space.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for their strength and sustainability, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly construction.
03
Low-iron glass is integrated throughout the façade to provide unobstructed views while maintaining high levels of natural light.
04
Charred wooden shingles not only serve as a protective exterior finish but also offer a unique aesthetic appeal rooted in traditional Japanese architecture.
05
The design seamlessly blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a deeper connection with the surrounding landscape.
The Zen Meditation Cabin is a design project that embodies the essence of tranquility and connection with nature through its thoughtfully crafted architecture. Positioned thoughtfully within a serene natural landscape, this meditation cabin serves as a retreat for self-reflection and mindfulness. The project prioritizes simplicity and harmony, showcasing an architectural narrative that invites its occupants to engage deeply with their surroundings.

One of the core functions of the Zen Meditation Cabin is to provide a dedicated space for meditation and contemplation. The cabin features an open floor plan that emphasizes flexibility in use, accommodating various activities related to personal introspection or group gatherings. By incorporating communal areas alongside more intimate spaces, this design fosters a sense of community while allowing for individual reflection, catering to the diverse needs of its users.

Significant attention is given to the materials used throughout the project. The primary structural elements consist of glue-laminated timber, a material celebrated for its strength and sustainability. This choice reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility, as the timber is sourced locally, minimizing the ecological footprint of the project. Dowel-laminated timber serves as a key flooring and roofing material, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also improving acoustic performance, which is essential for a meditative environment. The use of low-iron glass for large windows maximizes natural light entry while ensuring clarity, further enhancing the interior experience without compromising privacy.

The cabin's architectural design integrates large expanses of glass with wooden framing to create a seamless transition between the interior and the exterior. This approach fosters a strong visual connection with the landscape, allowing occupants to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Skylights positioned strategically along the roofline invite abundant natural light, contributing to a calm atmosphere and supporting the project’s emphasis on wellness and mindfulness.

The spatial organization within the cabin is carefully planned to encourage a flow that aligns with meditative practices. The ground floor serves as the primary meditation space, featuring simple seating arrangements and a small altar that invites contemplation. Beyond this, a mezzanine level accessible by a ladder offers an additional area for relaxation or personal reflection, reinforcing the flexible nature of the design.

Unique to the Zen Meditation Cabin is its commitment to an eco-conscious design philosophy, evident not only in its material choices but also in its overall construction method. The grounding foundation elevates the structure, preserving the natural terrain and reducing environmental disruption, which resonates with the project's ethos of harmony with nature.

The design emphasizes user experience, with each element thoughtfully considered to support mental well-being and introspective practices. The open environment, punctuated by natural light and surrounded by the outdoors, creates a soothing space for meditation, accentuating the purpose of the cabin as a refuge from the stresses of everyday life.

Overall, the Zen Meditation Cabin showcases an architectural language rooted in simplicity and functionality, bringing together sustainable materials, thoughtful design, and a strong connection to the natural world. Readers interested in exploring the nuances of this project are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented in the project documentation to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this compelling meditative space.
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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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