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Charred Wood Cabins as Individual Retreats for Meditation

Authors:
Matthew Hart, Barry Ludlow, Steven Segure, Lea Berta
Charred Wood Cabins as Individual Retreats for Meditation
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Charred wood exteriors create a strikingly durable facade for small cabins designed for solitary meditation, allowing occupants to immerse themselves in nature while fostering introspection and personal growth.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are constructed using Shou Sugi Ban technique for enhanced durability.
02
Each cabin is designed as a modular unit for easy customization and placement.
03
Interior spaces prioritize essential comforts for solitary meditation.
04
Large operable windows provide direct views of the surrounding nature.
05
The project emphasizes minimalism to foster a tranquil environment for reflection.

Silent Cabins are designed as individual retreats for meditation, focusing on the themes of isolation and self-reflection. Set in a natural environment, these cabins aim to create a space where people can step away from daily distractions and rediscover themselves. The design is influenced by Vipassana meditation principles, offering a sanctuary that encourages deep thought and personal growth. Each cabin accommodates one person, allowing for flexible placement that can either blend into the landscape or be elevated above it.

Materiality

Sustainability plays a crucial role in the material choices. Wood is the main material used in construction, valued for its warmth and natural look. The exterior is treated with Shou Sugi Ban, a traditional Japanese method that involves charring the wood's surface. This process helps protect the wood from decay and weather effects, while also enhancing its visual appeal and thermal properties during colder months.

Spatial Organization

Inside, spaces are carefully arranged to prioritize comfort and simplicity. Areas for hygiene, warmth, and food are grouped together, creating a functional space that feels safe and inviting. This layout transforms the cabin into a protective shell, allowing occupants to feel secure while also encouraging moments of quiet contemplation.

Modularity and Customization

The design's modularity allows for personal adjustments, making each cabin adaptable to individual preferences. This customization enhances the solitude experience, allowing occupants to connect more deeply with their surroundings. The ability to modify the space creates a more intimate retreat that meets the specific needs of each user.

The relationship between the cabins and their natural setting is evident in the design, promoting a thoughtful interaction with the environment. Large operable windows on one side open up to the forest, providing light and beautiful views. This feature not only brightens the interior but also strengthens the connection between the cabin and nature, enhancing the overall meditative effect.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

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.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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