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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
-
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
-
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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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.

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