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A Retreat Emphasizing Biodiversity with Local Plants and Traditional Sauna

Authors:
Seyedeh Fatemeh Sedaghat, Fatemeh Kazemi
A Retreat Emphasizing Biodiversity with Local Plants and Traditional Sauna
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Incorporating riparian vegetation and an aromatic garden, the cabin offers a sustainable retreat that fosters biodiversity while providing a traditional sauna experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an aromatic garden designed for visitor interaction with local plant species.
02
Utilizes native riparian vegetation to enhance local wildlife habitats.
03
Features a traditional Pirts sauna, connecting cultural practices with modern design.
04
Designed with an off-the-grid layout, promoting sustainability and ecological balance.
05
Emphasizes biodiversity by creating habitats for Latvia’s national bird, the white wagtail.

Birdfullnes(t) combines architecture with nature in a way that emphasizes connection and interaction. Located in a landscape rich in biodiversity, the cabin serves as a retreat for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of their environment. The design concept revolves around creating spaces that harmonize with the natural surroundings, allowing occupants to experience the local wildlife and flora.



Biodiversity plays a significant role in the design. Wetlands and riparian vegetation are integrated into the project, providing essential habitats for various local species, including Latvia's national bird, the white wagtail. By enhancing the ecological conditions of the site, the project promotes sustainability and encourages a rich variety of life. This focus on maintaining and supporting biodiversity reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility.



The project features an aromatic garden with native plants that offers visitors a chance to connect with the environment through their senses. By engaging with the garden, occupants gain a broader understanding of the local flora and its significance. This element enriches the overall experience and highlights the role of native species in supporting community well-being.



Drawing inspiration from tree trunks and bird forms, the design aligns with its surroundings. The cabin includes practical features like a traditional Pirts sauna, a fireplace for social gatherings, and a boat dock for outdoor activities. Each aspect of the design is thoughtfully integrated to enhance the user experience, encouraging interaction among visitors while maintaining the balance with nature.



The structure reflects a unique design approach, utilizing organic shapes that complement the landscape. Its careful arrangement prioritizes human experience within the natural world. Each detail—from its contours to its communal areas—serves to remind occupants of their connection to both architecture and the environment. This project showcases the potential for buildings to enhance our appreciation of nature and foster a sense of community.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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