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Vertical Sanctuary Crafted with U-Shaped Beams and Natural Wood Planks

Author:
Nassim Brouri
Vertical Sanctuary Crafted with U-Shaped Beams and Natural Wood Planks

Project in-detail

Designed with a vertical configuration and constructed using U-shaped beams and natural wood planks, the cabin offers a tranquil retreat for meditation and reflection in a serene forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a vertical arrangement to enhance forest views.
02
Constructed using U-shaped beams for structural efficiency.
03
Features a dry toilet system for sustainable waste management.
04
Includes a water storage capacity of 220 liters to support off-grid living.
05
Incorporates natural wood planks for warmth and aesthetic appeal.

The silent meditation cabin is a contemporary retreat designed to offer balance between busy urban life and the calming presence of nature. Located in a serene setting, it serves as a place where individuals can find respite and reconnect with themselves. The focus of the design is on simplicity and utility, with distinct areas dedicated to living, meditation, and sleeping.

Architecture Concept

The design is built around the clear separation of three essential functions: living, meditation, and sleeping. Each space has its own identity, which helps users engage more deeply with their chosen activities. This intentional layout encourages mindfulness and reflection, creating an atmosphere where individuals can truly immerse themselves in each experience.

Configuration Options

The cabin features two primary configurations: a horizontal layout and a vertical one. The horizontal design fosters a close connection to the ground and makes the space accessible to those with mobility challenges. This choice promotes integration with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the sense of tranquility. On the other hand, the vertical arrangement introduces a tower that allows for expansive views. This option encourages users to connect with the broader environment and appreciate the natural beauty around them.

Construction and Materials

The cabin is constructed using a straightforward system that emphasizes practicality. It includes key elements such as U-shaped peripheral metal beams, vertical bearing metal profiles, and iron plates secured with bolts. The interior features wood planks for flooring and wall coverings, as well as plywood for essential surfaces. The use of waterproofing barriers and corrugated metal sheets ensures durability, allowing the cabin to withstand various weather conditions over time.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a significant aspect of the design, reflected in the water and waste management systems included in the cabin. It features a water storage capacity of 220 liters along with a drainage basin for wastewater that directs excess to the ground. The addition of a dry toilet and a small gas cylinder ensures comfort while maintaining ecological responsibility. A wood-burning stove provides heat, supporting a self-sufficient lifestyle that aligns with the overall goal of the retreat.

The cabin’s arrangement promotes solitude and encourages a close relationship with the landscape, allowing for a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Each design detail enhances the meditative experience, fostering an inviting atmosphere that supports contemplation and personal reflection.

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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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