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Brass Altar and Dark Plywood Illuminate a Sustainable Meditation Cabin

Authors:
William Christian, John Dowling
Brass Altar and Dark Plywood Illuminate a Sustainable Meditation Cabin
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A suspended brass altar table and dark plywood walls define a compact meditation cabin that seamlessly integrates with the New Zealand landscape, prioritizing sustainability and a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
A fully operable central skylight allows for passive ventilation and seasonal light adjustments.
02
Four exterior flip-down panels serve dual functions as platforms and screens.
03
Dark stained plywood interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
04
A cylindrical suspended fireplace enhances thermal comfort during winter months.
05
The altar table, made of brass, is designed for mobility and flexibility in usage.

Cove Cabin is a design located in the peaceful landscapes of New Zealand. It serves as a space for meditation and quiet reflection. The overall concept focuses on the relationship between the structure and its natural surroundings. With an emphasis on sustainability and openness, the cabin is designed to provide a calming atmosphere for its occupants.

Structure and Materials

The building uses a structural insulated panel (SIP) system, which allows for quick assembly on-site while providing excellent thermal performance. This choice supports the project’s focus on being environmentally friendly. Inside, dark stained plywood lines the walls. This material choice creates a warm and inviting feeling, enhancing the tranquility of the space.

Interior Design Features

Inside, a pyramid hip ceiling adds height to the cabin, making the interior feel spacious. A central skylight brings in natural light, which highlights various design elements within the space. Low-positioned sliding windows give occupants framed views of the outside landscape, promoting a connection with nature. These features are significant in making the internal environment comfortable and calming.

Functional Additions

The cabin has four flip-down panels on the exterior walls. These panels can serve as platforms or screens, depending on the occupants' needs. They not only increase usability but also allow for more sunlight to enter the cabin. The central skylight can be opened for ventilation, improving air quality inside. This design is essential for maintaining comfort throughout different seasons.

Artistic Touches

A cylindrical suspended fireplace warms the cabin during colder months, making the space inviting. Below the skylight, an altar table symbolizes meditation and mindfulness. This table has wheels, which allow it to be moved based on the occupants' preferences. Dark storage drawers beneath the table help keep the space organized and visually appealing. The combination of these features creates a thoughtful and practical design.

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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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