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Wood-Burning Sanctuary With Saltwater Lanterns Surrounded By Nature

Authors:
Emanuele Carenzo, Juan Anaya, Jonathan Leyva benítez
Wood-Burning Sanctuary With Saltwater Lanterns Surrounded By Nature

Project in-detail

With a steep roof pitch, wood-burning stove, and saltwater lanterns, the cabin provides a sustainable retreat for meditation immersed in the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a steep roof to assist in snow shedding.
02
Incorporates saltwater lanterns for energy-efficient lighting.
03
Features a wood-burning stove for renewable heating.
04
Raised on four pillars to minimize soil disturbance.
05
Utilizes large windows for extensive views of the forest.

The Latvian Meditation Cabin functions as a retreat for individuals seeking a quiet place to meditate and connect with nature. Located in a tranquil forest setting, it draws on traditional Latvian designs while providing a modern, functional space. The overall design emphasizes simplicity and harmony with the environment, creating an inviting place for reflection.

Cultural Integration

The design incorporates elements of traditional Latvian architecture. With its steep roof pitch and low eaves, it reflects the characteristics of rural homes in Latvia. These features not only enhance the visual appeal but also support practical functions, such as helping with snow removal in winter. The blend of old and new creates a strong connection to cultural roots.

Spatial Organization

The cabin's layout consists of two levels, clearly separating spaces for meditation and sleeping. The ground floor is dedicated to meditation, promoting calmness and focus. The upper floor serves as a sleeping area, allowing for restful nights. This thoughtful arrangement enhances the experience, making it easy for users to transition between activities.

Sustainable Features

Sustainability plays an important role in the cabin's design. A wood-burning stove provides heat during colder months, using a renewable resource. The cabin also features saltwater-powered lanterns for lighting, reducing dependence on standard energy sources. Additionally, a water storage system ensures access to running water, supporting everyday needs.

Connection to Nature

Large windows and an external loggia create a strong bond with the surrounding forest. These elements allow ample natural light to fill the interior while offering beautiful views of the landscape. By raising the structure on four small pillars, the design minimizes soil disturbance and enhances its integration with nature, encouraging occupants to engage with the environment.

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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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