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Bamboo Pathways and Geodetic Knots in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Giulio Sartorio, Alessandro Sartorio
Bamboo Pathways and Geodetic Knots in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat
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Geodetic knots and bamboo pathways create a structured yet organic environment that facilitates wellness practices within a peaceful garden setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geodetic knots enhance structural integrity while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
02
Bamboo pathways encourage exploration and connection with the landscape.
03
Specialized rooms support meditation, acupuncture, and yoga practices.
04
Floor heating is integrated using Pex Rehau tubing for comfort year-round.
05
A glass roof maximizes natural light and connects indoor spaces to the outdoors.

The project is set within a natural landscape, taking inspiration from Japanese garden design, particularly the Kaiyu-shiki-teien garden. The overall design focuses on pathways that encourage exploration and reflection. It aims to blend built structures with the surrounding environment, creating a calm space centered on wellness and mindfulness.

Pathways and Cabins

A series of smooth pathways guide visitors through the garden, allowing them to discover hidden elements along the way. These paths are designed to create a quiet, meditative experience, making walking an opportunity to connect with nature. Alongside these pathways, cabins rise gently from the ground, providing spots for rest and contemplation.

Wellness Spaces

The design includes specific areas for wellness activities such as meditation, acupuncture, and yoga within the cabins. Each space is carefully arranged to promote relaxation and support the overall goal of fostering physical and mental well-being. This thoughtful layout ensures that each element has a purpose, contributing to a tranquil experience for users.

Material Integration

A selection of materials enhances both functionality and appearance. Geodetic knots and a glass roof allow natural light to enter the interiors. Structural beams and metal box joists provide necessary support while maintaining a natural aesthetic. Features like floor heating using Pex Rehau tubing ensure comfort during varying weather conditions. The ventilated underfloor system encourages air circulation, creating a pleasant atmosphere throughout the space.

This careful design leads to an environment where visitors can connect with nature and themselves. The interaction between pathways, cabins, and the landscape emphasizes harmony and balance, inviting a peaceful journey through the garden.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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