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Triangular Retreat Featuring a Meditative Void and Natural Wood Elements

Author:
Tjeerd Bloothoofd
Triangular Retreat Featuring a Meditative Void and Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

A triangular meditative void defines a cabin crafted from natural wood, creating a tranquil retreat that fosters reflection and connection with the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular design specifically enhances the meditative void experience.
02
Natural wood usage promotes thermal comfort and ecological integration.
03
Functional areas include a dedicated meditation space and a compact kitchen.
04
Operable windows facilitate natural ventilation and sound connection to nature.
05
Sustainable features support low-impact living, including a dry toilet system.

The cabin features a triangular form that creates a meditative void at its center, promoting reflection and calm. Located in a forested environment, the design integrates with nature and encourages a deep connection to the surroundings. The concept focuses on practical living, emphasizing functionality while providing a peaceful retreat for occupants.

Geometric Configuration

The triangular shape plays a vital role in shaping the cabin’s identity. The meditative void contrasts with the closed wooden areas, allowing for a sense of spaciousness. This geometry is not just for aesthetics; it plays a part in fostering an environment suitable for contemplation. The form evokes the image of a wooden hill, inviting people to immerse themselves in the natural landscape.

Interior Spaces

Inside, the organization of spaces is clear and purposeful. When entering the cabin, visitors encounter a bathroom area with a shower and a dry toilet. This setup provides essential amenities that prioritize comfort. The kitchen, located at the center, is fitted with a wood stove for cooking and heating. At the opposite end lies a dedicated area for meditation. This arrangement creates an easy flow between different functions, ensuring that each area fulfills its role effectively.

Material Selection

Natural wood is the key material used in the design, contributing to both the look and feel of the cabin. Wood adds warmth and character, making the interior inviting for occupants. Over time, the material will blend with the environment, further enhancing the connection to nature. The choice of wood reflects a commitment to creating a cozy atmosphere.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a core aspect of the cabin's design. It includes practical solutions suitable for short-term stays. Occupants receive necessary supplies, including drinking water stored in jerry cans and solar shower bags that promote outdoor bathing. The dry toilet system helps with waste management, while the evaporative cooler offers a simple form of passive cooling. These features support an eco-friendly approach, making the living experience efficient and mindful.

The design incorporates small, operable windows that connect the interior with the outside world. Fresh air and the sounds of nature flow in, enhancing the overall experience. This detail invites occupants to engage with the forest, reinforcing the cabin’s purpose as a space for reflection and tranquility.

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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

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