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A Mindful Cabin Retreat with a Rainwater Collection System

Authors:
Yuting Zhang, Huopu Zhang
A Mindful Cabin Retreat with a Rainwater Collection System
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With a trapezium shape that amplifies natural sounds and a rainwater collection system for sustainability, the cabin offers a serene retreat for meditation and contemplation in the Latvian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Right trapezium shape amplifies natural sounds.
02
Large windows provide stunning landscape views.
03
Compact layout organizes facilities within a thick wall.
04
Wood-burning fireplace enhances cabin usability.
05
Rainwater collection system integrated beneath sleeping area.

Situated in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia, the Silent Meditation Cabin is designed for those seeking peace and a deep connection to nature. Inspired by traditional Latvian architecture, the cabin's unique right trapezium shape enhances the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, creating an immersive environment. This thoughtful design allows visitors to engage more deeply with their thoughts and surroundings, enriching their experience of meditation and introspection.

Design Concept and Spatial Organization

The cabin’s form is more than just a sheltered space; it is a device for perception. By amplifying the subtle sounds of the environment, it invites calm into daily life and fosters a stronger bond with the natural world.

Inside, the spaces are clearly organized from public to private areas. Upon entering, visitors are in the main meditation area, which features large windows that provide beautiful views of the landscape. The interior is designed for flexibility, allowing for activities like meditation, reading, and tea-making. This functional layout makes the space welcoming and highly adaptable.

Materiality

The cabin was constructed using prefabricated modules, which were efficiently assembled on-site. The structure is supported by four concrete piers for stability. The exterior features a pine frame that remains exposed on the inside, creating a direct connection to the natural setting. The interior uses light-colored plywood for a warm atmosphere, while natural pine-wood panels provide insulation to keep the space comfortable throughout the year.

Functional Elements

The compact layout effectively organizes all necessary facilities—a bathroom, kitchen, study area, and wardrobe—into a “thick wall” along one edge of the cabin. A wood-burning fireplace and a small stove for making tea enhance the usability of the space. Additional features, such as sliding doors and operable windows with mosquito screens, further strengthen the relationship between the cabin and its natural surroundings. A rainwater collection system gathers water from the roof and stores it beneath the sleeping area.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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