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Candlelit Retreat with Recycled Timber and Conical Forms

Authors:
Luca Gebhard, Madina Akkubekova, Valeria Sapigni
Candlelit Retreat with Recycled Timber and Conical Forms
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Constructed with recycled timber and characterized by conical shapes that blend with the forest, the cabin serves as a tranquil retreat focused on mental well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled timber is utilized for heating, reinforcing environmental sustainability.
02
Extensive glazing creates a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.
03
Candle lighting with glass candelabra enhances the cabin's tranquil ambiance.
04
Conical forms mimic the surrounding pine trees, integrating the cabin with its environment.
05
A cabinet system organizes domestic functions, optimizing space efficiency.

The AOM cabin is an architectural design located in the peaceful Latvian forest. It serves as a retreat from the challenges of modern urban life, aiming to foster mental well-being in a tranquil setting. The design centers on creating a quiet and safe space that encourages reflection and relaxation, closely aligning with the natural environment.

Architectural Concept
The cabin is built to promote a calming atmosphere, responding to issues of stress and the need for environmental awareness. The layout includes a central area dedicated to mental activities, while everyday functions are organized within a series of cabinets. This design choice enhances the functionality of the space, all while keeping a clean and minimalist look.

Spatial Configuration
Drawing inspiration from the surrounding pine trees, the shape of the cabin resembles conical forms that blend with the landscape. This design helps reduce any visual disturbance, allowing the building to fit naturally within its setting. The geometric simplicity fosters a connection between the occupants and their environment, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the nature that surrounds them.

Environmental Control
The cabin focuses on practical solutions for heating and lighting. It operates in passive energy mode, which means users can manually adjust the interior climate to suit their needs. Skylights are carefully placed to bring in natural light, while side openings create opportunities for fresh air, maintaining comfort throughout different seasons.

Lighting and Interior Interaction
Candle lights enclosed in glass candelabra add both function and charm to the space. These lights can be directed along a rail, providing flexibility in the illumination. The extensive glass facade allows for constant interaction with the outdoors, making it feel as though nature is part of the cabin. The design encourages occupants to engage with the forest, making the experience more immersive.

The full glass facade not only floods the interior with light but also facilitates a strong connection to the forest, emphasizing the integration of living space with the natural world.

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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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Competition organisers

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.

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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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