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A Spherical Retreat Cabin for Individual Meditation

Author:
Thomas Gössler
A Spherical Retreat Cabin for Individual Meditation
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The article examines a series of conceptual meditation cabins designed for secluded natural environments in Bangladesh. The study focuses on spatial organization, material strategies, and sustainable design approaches that support mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical form reduces sharp angles for visual calm.
02
Interiors designed for adaptability in meditation practices.
03
Elevated positioning enhances natural light and views.
04
Natural materials promote integration with the landscape.
05
Modular components enable efficient assembly and disassembly.

Focus is a conceptual series of silent meditation cabins proposed for natural settings in Bangladesh. The design aims to provide individual retreat spaces where users can engage in mindfulness practices within a tranquil environment. The cabins are intended to facilitate disconnection from external distractions while encouraging reflection and a closer relationship with the surrounding landscape. The overall approach emphasizes simplicity and functionality, creating spaces that support meditation and contemplation.

Spatial Strategy
The cabins employ a spherical form that reduces sharp angles and straight lines, promoting visual calm and enhancing structural stability. Interiors are organized to support meditation practices, featuring adaptable furniture for sitting or resting and integrated storage solutions that maintain a clutter-free environment. Elevated or suspended positioning allows for natural light penetration and unobstructed views, reinforcing the connection with the surrounding environment. Ambient illumination is provided through gravity light systems designed to avoid visual intrusion.

Materiality and Sustainability
Natural materials, including timber and metal, are used to integrate the cabins with the landscape while supporting durability. The design incorporates modular components to facilitate efficient assembly and disassembly. Construction strategies prioritize low-impact methods and locally sourced materials, reflecting considerations for environmental responsibility.

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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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