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Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roof Create Harmonious Meditation Retreat in Nature

Author:
Lucas Yatch
Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roof Create Harmonious Meditation Retreat in Nature
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and a living green roof, the meditation retreat seamlessly blends into the landscape while providing a tranquil space for reflection and therapeutic practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates a living green roof to support local biodiversity and thermal insulation.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and reduced carbon footprint.
04
Features a bent A-frame design to maximize interior space while optimizing connection to the landscape.
05
Strategically positioned glazed panels provide panoramic views while maintaining privacy.

The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in a serene natural context. It serves as a therapeutic retreat, aimed at providing a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection. The design emphasizes a seamless connection between the building and its surroundings, capturing the essence of tranquility through its materials and layout.

The cabin is constructed primarily using wood as the main structural element and features large glazed panels that enhance the visual connection with the landscape. The integration of a green roof enhances not only the building’s environmental performance but also promotes local biodiversity by blending the structure into the natural setting.

Sustainable design elements are central to the project. Solar panels located on the roof contribute to energy independence, while a rainwater collection system supports self-sufficiency in water use. The architecture employs natural ventilation techniques to maintain comfort without relying solely on mechanical systems, making it efficient in various climatic conditions.

Design Integration and Functionality

What distinguishes the Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin from other architectural projects is its commitment to minimalism and sustainability without compromising functionality. The design process prioritized the creation of open, airy spaces that facilitate relaxation. The deliberate choice of fewer vertical elements in the structure enhances the horizontal flow of the cabin, allowing natural light to penetrate deeper into the interior spaces.

The interior layout is designed to accommodate both individual users and group sessions, providing flexibility in its use. The therapeutic experience is further enhanced by strategically placed openings that frame the views of the surrounding hills and landscapes, promoting a reconnection with nature.

Sustainable Technologies and Materials

A key aspect of the design is the selection of materials that align with the overall sustainability goals. The extensive use of wood, sourced sustainably, as well as recycled and locally sourced materials, reduces the carbon footprint of the construction process. The choice of high-efficiency glazing not only minimizes energy consumption but also ensures occupant comfort through optimal thermal performance.

Additionally, the living roof plays a crucial role in regulating temperature and contributing to the building's energy efficiency. This feature functions as a natural insulator, reduces runoff, and enhances the aesthetic integration of the cabin into the landscape.

The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin represents a convergence of architecture and nature, offering a purposeful space that fosters mental clarity and emotional healing. For a deeper understanding of its design concepts, architectural plans, sections, and a visualization of the unique architectural ideas can be explored to appreciate the project's full potential and innovative approaches.

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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.

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