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Carbonized Wood and Natural Rock Create a Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Adolfo Cendejas Guerrero, Alvaro Garcia Cortes
Carbonized Wood and Natural Rock Create a Tranquil Meditation Retreat
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Carbonized wood and a natural rock base define a meditation cabin designed to foster tranquility and cultural reflection within a serene landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation areas are integrated with altars for processing natural essences.
02
The structure utilizes carbonized wood through the shou sugi ban technique for durability.
03
Natural rock forms the foundation, grounding the cabin in its environment.
04
Sunlight is strategically captured with openings designed for seasonal light changes.
05
The layout promotes fluid circulation between the interior and surrounding landscape.

The TROJE project embodies a thoughtful reinterpretation of traditional Mexican cabins known as trojes. Located in a natural setting, the structure functions as a meditation cabin, facilitating moments of introspection and a connection to cultural roots. The design centers on capturing the simple, yet solid forms of these traditional buildings while creating a tranquil space for reflection.

Architecture Concept

The design features key areas dedicated to meditation and the processing of natural essences. These spaces are arranged to promote movement and interaction, allowing users to flow easily between the inside of the cabin and its surrounding landscape. The entrances are intentionally placed to enhance the experience of entering the space, creating a thoughtful link between the interior and the exterior.

Materiality

A careful selection of materials reflects traditional building methods. The roof is covered with wooden shingles, honoring the craftsmanship of the past. Carbonized wood, treated using the shou sugi ban method, adds both strength and a unique look to the structure. Additionally, a natural rock base grounds the cabin within its environment, reinforcing its connection to the site.

Natural Light and Seasonal Changes

Light plays an important role in the design. The placement of windows and openings takes into account the sun’s movement throughout the year. This design choice ensures that both summer and winter sun can enter the cabin, creating warm spaces for contemplation. As daylight shifts, so does the ambiance inside, providing a dynamic environment for users.

Aesthetic and Functional Integration

TROJE balances traditional forms with contemporary needs, establishing a dialogue between the past and the present. The details of the altars and meditation areas not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the overall experience. The design encourages interaction with nature, with the structure acting as a focal point that enhances the tranquility of its surroundings.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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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

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