Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Bark and Sapwood Retreat Design Emphasizing Community Connection

Author:
Ewa Markowska
Bark and Sapwood Retreat Design Emphasizing Community Connection
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed using bark and sapwood, the retreat integrates natural materials with modern functionality to create a nurturing space for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Main meditation space is designed as an open area to enhance mindfulness.
02
Installation of a composting toilet supports sustainable living practices.
03
Incorporation of a rocket stove for efficient energy use.
04
Use of bark and sapwood reflects a strong connection to local materials.
05
Spatial arrangement fosters both individual retreat and community engagement.

The Ozolini Teamakers project presents a thoughtful blend of natural and human elements within a serene environment. Drawing inspiration from Japanese design principles, the focus is on creating spaces that encourage relaxation and meditation. The layout is organized to cater to both individual needs and community interactions, fostering an atmosphere of mindfulness and well-being.

Architecture Concept

The design features a clear arrangement of distinct areas, including a floor, bed, terrace, and cabin. Each space serves a specific purpose while contributing to an overall sense of peace. A central meditation area highlights the importance of mindfulness and serves as a refuge for quiet reflection.

Materials

The materials selected for this project are significant in creating the desired atmosphere. Various types of wood are incorporated, such as bark, cambium, sapwood, heartwood, and wood for insulation. These choices enhance the natural feel of the structure. Steel and concrete are also utilized, providing strength and ensuring the building is well integrated with its surroundings.

Facilities

Key facilities within the design emphasize both sustainability and functionality. The inclusion of a shower with a sauna system, a composting toilet, and designated areas for food and water storage supports practical living. A rocket stove enhances energy efficiency, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices in everyday life.

Design Detail

Solar bulbs placed throughout the area provide warm lighting, further contributing to the comfortable atmosphere. The careful attention to these details reinforces a balance between personal comfort and environmental awareness, creating a space that is both usable and attractive.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in