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Triangular Frames and Black Mesh Enveloping a Nature-Inspired Meditation Retreat

Author:
Kahara Mori
Triangular Frames and Black Mesh Enveloping a Nature-Inspired Meditation Retreat

Project in-detail

Enveloped in a black mesh and supported by triangular wooden frames, the cabins create an immersive environment for meditation within the serene forest of Ozolini, prioritizing a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize triangular wooden frames for structural support without vertical pillars.
02
Black mesh forms the exterior, providing insect protection and adjustable ventilation.
03
The interior floor design features rounded sections and indentations for tactile interaction.
04
Cabins are strategically positioned beside trees, minimizing environmental disruption.
05
Natural light is emphasized through openings that enhance the connection to the forest.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins, titled "Nature's Palette," are designed to serve individuals seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. Located in Ozolini, these cabins fit harmoniously into the forest landscape, providing spaces that promote meditation and self-reflection. The design concept draws a comparison between silent meditation and the process of an artist working with their environment, where nature serves as both the backdrop and the source of inspiration.

Natural Integration

The design emphasizes a strong connection with the surrounding landscape, allowing the natural features to shape the user experience. A significant element of the project is the placement of a cabin next to a tree. This decision minimizes disruption to the environment and creates a natural focal point that aligns with the landscape. Paths weave through the forest, guiding visitors while reflecting the organic contours of the terrain and enhancing the journey toward contemplation.

Structural Composition

The cabins utilize a unique structural system based on triangular wooden frames that lean against one another, eliminating the need for traditional vertical pillars. This approach results in a minimalist design while ensuring stability and providing efficient drainage for snow. The floor layout is non-traditional, featuring rounded sections and indentations that encourage interaction with the natural elements and invite users to engage with the space more intimately.

Material and Light

The exterior of the cabins is constructed with a black mesh material, which serves to keep insects out while also blocking direct sunlight, allowing for proper ventilation. This mesh creates a structure similar to a tent that can adapt to various conditions. A waterproof layer is added to ensure the interior remains dry, enhancing comfort for occupants. Inside, natural light filters in through the leaves during the day, while lanterns provide a calm glow at night, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Functional Elements

Practical design choices within the cabins enhance the overall experience. A wood stove and strategically arranged bricks provide both heat and cooking capabilities, linking residents to traditional ways of living. The design also includes dry toilets, carefully positioned to maintain a focus on simplicity while fulfilling essential needs. These elements reflect an intention to support a minimalist lifestyle, allowing individuals to concentrate on their meditation practices without unnecessary distractions.

The interiors of the cabins invite the beauty of the natural world, with openings that let in fresh air and light. This design choice helps to immerse occupants in the forest atmosphere, promoting a deep connection to the surrounding environment.

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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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