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Wood and Green Integration in a Mindful Community Space

Authors:
Derya Yüce, Elif Sarpaşar, Cansu Güreser, Morteza Kabiri
Wood and Green Integration in a Mindful Community Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating a double-layer façade and a sustainable wood structure, the design seamlessly connects indoor spaces with a tranquil zen garden, creating an environment tailored for yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integration of a zen garden that serves as a meditation space within the building layout.
02
Use of a double-layer façade to regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.
03
Incorporation of a ground-source heat pump system for efficient heating and cooling.
04
Flexible spatial arrangements that adapt to various community activities and individual practices.
05
Focus on local wood materials to enhance sustainability and minimize transportation impact.

The design is situated in a quiet area that promotes reflection and a sense of peace. It draws on the principles of yoga and mindfulness, creating spaces designed for both social gatherings and personal retreat. The concept is rooted in simplicity and a relationship with nature, evident in the layout that seeks to provide comfort and clarity amid life’s complexities.

Conceptual Framework

The design encourages self-discovery and tranquility. The layout includes a mezzanine floor for resting, a main yoga hall for practice, and important facilities such as shower changing rooms and an entrance hall. A zen garden weaves through the site, starting at the entrance and flowing into a sunset garden, emphasizing the connection to the surrounding environment.

Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental sustainability is a key focus of the design. The building aims to minimize carbon emissions during its lifespan, incorporating systems that enhance energy efficiency. A double-layer façade controls heat and sunlight, making the interior comfortable while connecting it to the outdoors. This transparency allows occupants to feel engaged with their surroundings.

Materials and Energy

Wood is the main material used in the construction, chosen for its beauty and compatibility with sustainable goals. It enhances the project’s overall character and provides a warm atmosphere. Solar panels supply hot water and electricity, while a ground source heat pump offers efficient heating and cooling. A rainwater collection and recycling system is also part of the design, enabling the use of gathered water for irrigation and further supporting the environmental commitment.

Design Details

The composition reflects a thoughtful blend of function and nature. Different spaces are arranged to allow for various uses, making the experience adaptable for users. The zen garden not only serves as a place for social interaction but also invites quiet contemplation, embodying the project’s intent to foster a deeper connection with the natural world.

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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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