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Water Wheel Powered Retreat Featuring Stone Barn and Sustainable Timber Elements

Author:
Katarzyna Przala
Water Wheel Powered Retreat Featuring Stone Barn and Sustainable Timber Elements

Project in-detail

Harnessing the river’s flow through a thoughtfully integrated water wheel, this retreat seamlessly combines a historic stone barn with sustainable timber elements, creating a tranquil space designed for meditation and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a functional water wheel that generates energy from the adjacent river.
02
Historically preserved stone barn serves as a communal gathering space, enhancing the connection to local heritage.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural elements, providing sustainability and aesthetic warmth.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer a fire-resistant exterior while blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
05
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and allows for expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor that harmonizes spirituality and community within a natural setting. Situated near a river, this project aims to provide a serene environment for meditation and holistic wellness. The architectural design reflects a careful consideration of both landscape and purpose, creating spaces that foster reflection, connection, and personal growth. The integration of an old stone barn with a new, modern extension highlights a commitment to preserving local heritage while embracing contemporary design practices.

The main function of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp is to serve as a retreat for individuals seeking a peaceful escape for meditation, yoga, and community gatherings. The architectural layout is planned to enhance the meditative experience, with designated areas for quiet reflection, group activities, and social interaction. The design cleverly separates the meditation space from the living areas, providing an intentional flow that respects the needs of both solitude and community engagement.

Key components of the project include the old stone barn, which has been preserved and repurposed, maintaining its historical character while accommodating modern amenities. The barn serves as a central gathering space, anchored by a large dining room and a cozy living room that features a fireplace. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere conducive to community bonding and shared experiences. The new extension, marked by contemporary architectural elements, includes a yoga and meditation hall designed to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. This hall serves as the heart of the camp, a place for daily practices that connect participants to their inner selves and the natural world.

Within the context of sustainable architecture, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp incorporates materials thoughtfully chosen to blend with the environment and promote a sense of well-being. The extensive use of wood throughout the structures not only enhances the aesthetic warmth but also aligns with the project’s intention to create a grounded and organic atmosphere. The old stone of the barn offers a physical connection to the site’s history, while large glass windows in the new areas invite the outside in, ensuring a seamless visual connection with the beautiful river and gardens.

One of the unique design approaches taken in this project is the incorporation of a water wheel system. This element not only serves as a practical source of energy, harnessing the river’s flow but also acts as a symbolic representation of continuous movement and renewal. The integration of energy-generating technologies reflects a commitment to sustainability and responsible design, while the layout promotes an eco-friendly lifestyle through features like a vegetable garden that encourages self-sufficiency.

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp stands out through its balance of functional design and aesthetic appeal. By creating spaces that prioritize both individual needs for tranquility and group dynamics for socialization, the project invites visitors to experience the best of both worlds. The architecture is designed not only as a physical space but also as an experience that fosters deeper connections among individuals and with nature.

To truly appreciate the fullness of the Stone Barn Meditation Camp, the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs present a comprehensive view of the thought-provoking ideas behind this project. Exploring these elements can provide deeper insights into the innovative design strategies employed and the intentionality behind each space within the camp. As you engage with the project presentation, consider how these architectural aspects work in tandem to create a retreat that is both nurturing and inspiring.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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