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Vibrational Essence Sanctuary with Glulam Structure and Reflecting Pond

Authors:
Jonathan Zegers, Animish Kudalkar
Vibrational Essence Sanctuary with Glulam Structure and Reflecting Pond

Project in-detail

A beekeeping station and flower processing alter intersect within a glulam structure, complemented by a reflecting pond, all designed to create a sanctuary for meditation and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Develops vibrational frequency essences in a dedicated processing space.
02
Incorporates a beekeeping station to enhance ecological engagement.
03
Utilizes a glulam structure for sustainable and strong support.
04
Features a reflecting pond that promotes tranquility and meditation.
05
Integrates cork flooring for improved acoustics and comfort.

The Earth Energies NZ Sanctuary is set in a serene natural landscape, designed to promote meditation and mindfulness. It illustrates a clear concept of separation and flow, creating spaces that encourage deep reflection and connection with one's surroundings. The design carefully integrates functional areas that provide diverse opportunities for engaging in practices that support well-being.

Concept and Spatial Organization

At the heart of the design is the relationship between voids and planes. These elements translate mindfulness principles into a tangible experience. The sanctuary is organized into distinct zones, each designed to evoke different feelings. Users can move through the space and find moments of calm and introspection. Areas dedicated to meditation, beekeeping, and flower processing coalesce into an environment that nurtures individual and communal practices.

Functional Elements

Various functional areas are skillfully integrated throughout the sanctuary to accommodate a range of activities. A flower processing alter serves as a space for creating vibrational frequency essences. Nearby, a wood chopping station supports sustainable resource use. The inclusion of a beekeeping station emphasizes the connection between human activities and nature, adding to the site's rich experience. Outdoor areas, like the covered wood deck and reflecting pond, are included to invite users to engage with their environment meaningfully.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials contributes significantly to both function and aesthetic appeal. Glass is used to allow natural light to fill interior spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Gypsum provides a smooth surface for finishes, enhancing the overall appearance. Cork flooring is chosen for its sound-absorbing qualities and tactile warmth. Glulam wood decking offers structural support while aligning with the ecological themes present in the design. Stacked rock serves a grounding purpose, tying the structure firmly to its context.

Contextual Integration

Architectural features enhance user interaction with the environment. An operable entry wall allows for easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas. With built-in storage, the design maintains organization for various activities without disrupting the tranquil atmosphere.

The sanctuary succeeds in merging structure with nature, inviting individuals to explore their surroundings. The arrangement of spaces encourages contemplation and engagement, creating a setting where mindfulness can flourish.

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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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