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Whispers of Nature in Brown Wood Paneling and Sustainable Cabins for Quiet Reflection

Authors:
Michael Spinello, Nathan Unstead
Whispers of Nature in Brown Wood Paneling and Sustainable Cabins for Quiet Reflection

Project in-detail

Built using brown wood paneling and designed for self-sufficiency, the cabins provide a secluded setting for silent meditation amidst the tranquil forest landscape of Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with wood paneling that enhances the immersive experience in nature.
02
Each cabin is positioned to maximize privacy while drawing in natural light.
03
A pier construction method reduces environmental impact on the landscape.
04
The roof design incorporates succession planting to support local wildlife habitats.
05
Designed specifically for self-sufficiency without reliance on external utilities.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins project provides a thoughtful response to the need for quiet spaces for reflection in a busy world. Set on the Ozolini Teamakers family farm in Latvia, the design encourages solitary practices based on principles of silent meditation, particularly Vipassanā. The cabins act as spaces that connect users with the surrounding forest landscape, allowing people to engage deeply with their thoughts and the environment.

Design Concept

The design focuses on creating simple geometric forms that fit well within the natural setting. Each cabin is placed carefully to provide privacy and a unique experience based on its specific location. Users can immerse themselves in the fresh air, sounds of nature, and scenic views, all of which contribute to a peaceful meditative atmosphere.

Spatial Configuration

Each cabin includes a front porch that is at ground level to facilitate easy access. Inside, there is an entry hall that contains storage and a small area for food preparation, along with a dry toilet for convenience. The sleeping loft, reached by a ladder, uses vertical space efficiently, keeping the interior compact yet functional. This layout supports individuals seeking quiet retreats while remaining comfortable and inviting.

Material and Sustainability

The materials used in the cabins create a warm and approachable interior. Wood paneling wraps the walls, providing a sense of enclosure, while insect screens at floor and ceiling levels allow fresh air to circulate and connect occupants with the outside. The design commitment to sustainability is clear. The cabins feature a pier construction, which reduces the impact on the landscape and does not require connections to electricity or water. This approach promotes a self-sufficient lifestyle, in line with ecological principles.

Ecological Integration

The roofs are designed as planting fields that support local wildlife and enhance the surrounding ecology. The project's adaptability to different site conditions, such as Farm, Slope, Valley, and Lake, shows a keen awareness of how to optimize each cabin's location for both accessibility and the meditative experience. This consideration strengthens the link between users and the natural environment, creating a calm and reflective retreat.

Key design details include large double doors that frame wide views of the exterior landscape. Roll-down insect screens increase comfort while maintaining a connection to the natural world outside.

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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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