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Candlelit Retreats Wrapped in Etfe with Cross-Laminated Timber

Authors:
Levent Arıdağ, Fitnat Cimşit Koş, Okan Aktaş, Tugay Yılmaz
Candlelit Retreats Wrapped in Etfe with Cross-Laminated Timber
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The use of cross-laminated timber and an ETFE skin creates a series of adaptable cabins that encourage meditation and reflection, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flaps in the cabin design allow surrounding vegetation to thrive.
02
The structure utilizes high-performance cross-laminated timber for durability.
03
ETFE skin regulates light entry while protecting against weather elements.
04
Cabins feature distinct communal and private meditation spaces.
05
Candle lanterns create an intimate ambiance during nighttime use.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins are situated within ancient woodlands, designed to support meditation and peaceful reflection. The concept focuses on creating cabins that function as "adaptive caves," which highlights a design that interacts with and blends into the surrounding environment. Each cabin serves as a retreat, allowing individuals to connect with nature while engaging in both communal and private meditation practices.

Design and Adaptability

The cabins feature an adaptable design, allowing them to fit various geographical settings such as lake shores and forested slopes. This flexibility ensures that the structures maintain their intended purpose while integrating well with different landscapes. With design elements that allow for natural growth, like flaps that let vegetation flourish around the cabins, the project reinforces its commitment to sustainability and ecological harmony.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of public and private spaces within the cabins is a central aspect of the design. These structures include areas for group meditation while also providing secluded spots for private reflection. This thoughtful layout balances social engagement with personal solitude, enhancing the overall experience for users. The design invites individuals to participate in shared practices while also allowing for moments of quiet contemplation in a natural setting.

Material Selection

Choosing the right materials is essential for the cabins' functionality and integrity. Cross-laminated timber is used to ensure strength and durability while maintaining a lightweight structure. As a renewable resource, this material aligns with sustainable practices and reduces environmental impact. The cabins are also enclosed with a protective ETFE skin that helps regulate light and provides shelter from weather conditions, allowing for an environment conducive to meditation.

At night, the cabins are softly illuminated by candle lanterns, creating an intimate setting that enhances the tranquility and meditative atmosphere.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Competition organisers

Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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