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Triangular Roof Cabins Constructed With Local Timber and Designed for Immersion in Nature

Authors:
Milica Zivkovic, Tina Ignjatovic
Triangular Roof Cabins Constructed With Local Timber and Designed for Immersion in Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced materials and characterized by a distinctive triangular roof, these cabins offer a serene environment for meditation and self-care within Portugal's lush forests, promoting a deep connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins feature a bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels, they prioritize sustainability and local sourcing.
03
Charred wooden shingles on the exterior promote durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Large windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light and integrate the interior with the surrounding forest.
05
Each cabin includes a dedicated hand-washing area to enhance the wellness experience for guests.
The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins, located in the serene landscape of Portugal, embody a harmonious blend of architecture and nature designed specifically for personal retreat and rejuvenation. This project represents a thoughtful engagement with the surrounding environment, reflecting the core principles of mindfulness and ecological sustainability. Each cabin serves as a tranquil environment where guests can engage in meditation, therapy, and self-care, fostering a deep connection between the individual and nature.

Functionally, the cabins are designed to accommodate various therapeutic activities while ensuring comfort and serenity. Each structure boasts approximately 15 square meters of space, thoughtfully organized into two distinct zones. The first zone caters to therapeutic engagement, featuring a hand-washing area and movable storage for essential oils and therapeutic tools. This area emphasizes functionality, allowing therapists and guests to focus on spiritual practices without distraction. The second zone is dedicated to relaxation and self-care, housing facilities for massage treatment and personal reflection. This dual-function design ensures that each cabin supports the holistic wellness of its visitors, making it an ideal setting for retreat and rejuvenation.

The architectural design of the meditation cabins is characterized by simplicity and elegance, primarily represented through their triangular roof structure. This distinct form not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also serves practical purposes, such as efficient rainwater harvesting. The roofs facilitate natural drainage, preventing potential issues related to water accumulation while also promoting environmental sustainability by using harvested rainwater in landscaping or other non-potable applications.

Materials play a significant role in this project, reinforcing the design's commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. The cabins are constructed using locally sourced materials, which minimizes transportation emissions and enhances the structure's compatibility with its surrounding landscape. The roof is made of natural wood rafters complemented by OSB plates and thermal insulation, ensuring energy efficiency. The use of profiled sheet metal in a light green hue provides a contemporary touch while blending harmoniously with the verdant environment.

The walls consist of gypsum board with mineral wool insulation, enhancing thermal performance and contributing to occupant comfort. Large windows strategically placed throughout the cabins allow natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and introspection. This connection to the outdoors is further emphasized by the facade board, which organically ties the structure to its natural surroundings. Additional furnishings, such as shelves made from natural wood and transparent fabric curtains, add to the warmth and functionality of the interiors.

One notable aspect of this project is its adaptability. The design allows for the replication of cabins in various locations within the retreat, providing versatility while maintaining a coherent architectural identity. This modular approach signifies a thoughtful exploration of ecological design, emphasizing how architecture can respond to diverse environmental contexts while upholding the retreat's core values.

The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins also promote a broader ecological awareness by enhancing guest engagement with the local landscape. Surrounded by lush forests, the cabins encourage visitors to immerse themselves in forest bathing, a practice that relates to the retreat's purpose. Such engagement not only augments the wellbeing of the guests but also fosters a genuine appreciation for nature, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices in architectural design.

In summary, the Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins stand as a model of thoughtful architectural design that prioritizes sustainability, functionality, and a deep connection with nature. The project illustrates how architecture can facilitate personal wellness and environmental harmony through careful material selection and innovative design approaches. For a more detailed exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and ideas, readers are encouraged to investigate further, gaining deeper insights into the design and functionality of these meditation cabins.
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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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