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Black Square Retreat with Agricultural Netting and Timber Frame

Author:
Natalia Sosonkina
Black Square Retreat with Agricultural Netting and Timber Frame
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Constructed from a timber frame and enveloped by agricultural netting, the Black Square creates a minimalistic meditation space that seamlessly integrates light and shadow while fostering a deep connection to its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features an innovative use of agricultural netting for shading.
02
Flexible entry points allow for varied access to the meditation space.
03
The design emphasizes a direct visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
04
It transitions from light to dark, enhancing the meditative experience.
05
The square shape symbolizes renewal, reinforcing the project's thematic focus.

The Black Square is a meditation space designed to blend with its natural surroundings. Located in a serene landscape, the building serves as a retreat for personal reflection. The concept emphasizes the nature of meditation, which is both an inward journey and a way to observe the world. This balance is reflected in the design, which combines elements of isolation with a connection to the environment.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout promotes movement, allowing visitors to enter and exit from various points. This openness represents freedom, moving away from the constraints of traditional meditation spaces. The arrangement fosters an interaction between the outside landscape and the interior, inviting users to feel at one with nature while finding comfort inside.

Shading and Light

A key feature of The Black Square is its use of agricultural netting for shading. This netting softens incoming light and reduces direct sunlight, creating a calm environment. The design provides a way to maintain a link with the external landscape while supporting the contemplative atmosphere. Light and shadow play across the space throughout the day, enhancing the experience in tune with natural rhythms.

Materiality and Structure

The building uses a timber frame and is supported by a screw pile foundation, which ensures stability while reducing environmental impact. These materials were selected for their practicality and to reflect the project's focus on simplicity and humility. Inside, the space is kept raw and minimal, allowing visitors to concentrate on the outside world as they meditate.

Geometric Harmony

The structure's square shape adds to its clarity. When closed, the sliding doors give it the appearance of a "black square," a symbol associated with renewal and new beginnings. This straightforward form enhances the significance of the space, reinforcing themes of introspection and clarity.

Thoughtful use of light, shade, and geometric form creates a quiet space that encourages deep meditation, helping individuals connect with their inner selves while appreciating the peaceful surrounding landscape.

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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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