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Cedar Retreat in a Tranquil Lakeside Setting

Author:
Olivier Keseru
Cedar Retreat in a Tranquil Lakeside Setting
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Constructed with cedar and incorporating a tea-making workshop, the retreat offers a serene environment by Lake Bezdibene, promoting wellness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cedar siding blends seamlessly with the forest surroundings.
02
The tea house includes specialized areas for tea preparation and community events.
03
Cabins are strategically positioned to enhance privacy and immersion in nature.
04
A dedicated yoga and meditation room supports wellness initiatives.
05
Natural light in the tea house is maximized through polycarbonate windows.

The Ozolini Retreat is located in an ancient forest near Lake Bezdibene, emphasizing a strong connection to nature. The project focuses on creating a peaceful environment where visitors can relax and engage with their surroundings. It features a well-thought-out design that includes various structures aimed at enhancing the overall experience of being in a natural setting.

Guest House
-
The guest house stands prominently next to Lake Bezdibene. It functions as the main structure of the retreat, featuring two stories and an open living area that offers views of the water and landscape. Within, there are private spaces such as a bedroom and bathroom, promoting both communal living and personal comfort. A dedicated yoga and meditation room highlights the retreat's focus on health and wellness, encouraging visitors to unwind and find inner peace.

Cabins
-
Three cabins are positioned within the forest to provide guests with privacy and a deeper connection to the natural environment. Each cabin is designed for two people and adopts a simple layout that fosters a cozy and intimate atmosphere. This thoughtful placement allows guests to immerse themselves in the peacefulness of the forest, enhancing their overall experience and encouraging a greater appreciation of nature.

Tea House
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The tea house serves as a workshop area for tea-making and is situated near the old stone barn. This connection to traditional structures adds to the charm of the retreat. The tea house includes spaces for the various stages of tea preparation, such as cutting, drying, and packing. It also hosts communal events, bringing visitors together for shared experiences. The hands-on approach to tea-making further enhances the retreat’s goal of connecting people with nature and its processes.

Materiality
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Materials used throughout the retreat play a significant role in its design. The guest house and cabins are constructed using local cedar wood, which helps to blend the buildings with the surrounding landscape. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional identity. In addition, polycarbonate sheets are used for windows in the tea house’s drying room, allowing light to filter in while maintaining comfort.

The design of the Ozolini Retreat focuses on creating an engaging and tranquil atmosphere, where every structure serves a specific purpose. Each element is carefully planned to enhance the experience of being in nature, offering a thoughtful approach to relaxation and connection.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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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
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Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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