Matyáš Jirát

We all come to meditation different. We all have different minds. We all have different needs.

The concept of flexibility and permeability was at forefront of my design process for the Kiwi Meditation Cabin architectural competition from Bee Breeders. The horizontal slats allow for sound and light accessibility. It was important for me to create a space in which it is possible to lock yourself out of the world. Drown out all sound but at the same time in other configuration to be able to connect with nature while being in a safe space.

Equally, I wanted to express the idea of the difference of minds using different geometric shapes even though the number 8 is repeated in many different areas. Each wall is constructed from standard 5x30cm boards – simile to human minds- but each is uniquely shaped. Everyone is welcomed regardless of their journey in meditation as represented by diverse boarding. Present are six movable walls, one solid and one empty.

Originally, a water-based centerpiece was considered, but the whole structure was inspired by Minka houses – traditional Japanese farmer housing – which often have Irori, sunken indoor fireplaces. And thus, was born the Irori in my meditation cabin.

The client asked to do some of the construction themselves. The structure is located in a remote location. A desire for it to be sustainable, wood was the dominant choice of material. In the vicinity, there are several local mills, where the lumber can be sourced all less than 100 miles away from the site. It posed challenges as many other materials were rendered impossible, but this constraint further amplified the idea of flexible walls in my design process.

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