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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 Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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