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Bamboo Sheltering Overhang in a Tranquil Space for Mindfulness

Author:
Cordelia Kent
Bamboo Sheltering Overhang in a Tranquil Space for Mindfulness
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The integration of recycled steel and reclaimed wood forms a tranquil environment centered around yoga and meditation, enhanced by a bamboo overhang that highlights the project's commitment to sustainability and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed wood cladding enhances sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
02
A bamboo overhang offers protection while integrating natural materials.
03
Three skylights optimize daylight for flower essence processing.
04
Movable elements allow reconfiguration for diverse activities.
05
Low-level windows provide unique views of the surrounding landscape.

Wai is an architectural design that connects closely with its natural environment, serving a purpose primarily focused on yoga and meditation. Located in a quiet setting, the design emphasizes movement, symmetry, and flow, fostering a strong relationship between users and the surrounding landscape. The concept is built around enhancing mindfulness through physical space, utilizing large openings that welcome nature into the interior.

Spatial Composition

Inside Wai, large glass doors stretch from floor to ceiling, complemented by low-level windows and well-placed skylights. These features work together to bring in ample natural light, providing wide views of the outdoor setting and blending the boundaries between inside and outside. This arrangement creates a space where users can engage fully with their environment, enhancing the overall experience.

Movable Elements

Wai incorporates flexible design features, such as sliding and bifold doors that can be opened or closed as needed. Adjustable plinths throughout the space allow users to change the layout depending on their activities. This flexibility is particularly useful for yoga and meditation, enabling individuals to tailor the environment to their personal needs. The layout promotes a sense of movement and adaptability.

Material Integration

Materials selected for Wai focus on sustainability and aesthetic harmony. The exterior is finished with reclaimed wood, paired with a roof made of recycled corrugated steel. Inside, the flooring consists of locally sourced wood, while built-in shelving is made from bamboo. These material choices enhance the connection to nature, supporting both practical use and environmental responsibility.

Functional Features

There are also specific functions included in the design, such as three skylights that provide natural light essential for activities like flower essence processing. An overhang at the rear serves to protect the wood for a log burner, while also incorporating natural elements into the overall design. The space features two plinths on recessed tracks, making it easy to adapt to different uses and reflecting the principles of flow and utility central to the design.

The light blue walls help create a calming atmosphere, contributing to the intended environment for relaxation and meditation. This choice of color effectively supports the overall design, providing a soothing backdrop for users as they engage in their activities.

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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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