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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Forming a Nature-Focused Wellness Retreat

Author:
Viktoriia Kurhan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Forming a Nature-Focused Wellness Retreat
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this architectural retreat integrates a spherical design that fosters wellness and community engagement within a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical structure enhances spatial efficiency and promotes community engagement.
02
Extensive use of charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels support sustainability and structural integrity.
04
Large glazing elements provide uninterrupted panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Dedicated yoga space under a glass dome fosters a direct connection to the environment.

**Geographical Context and Intent**
Located in an area characterized by lush greenery and natural surroundings, the Geosphere project is designed to promote tranquility and well-being. The intent is to create a space for meditation and communal activities, fostering a connection between occupants and their environment. The spherical form of the structure is central to this vision, reflecting a departure from conventional rectangular designs in favor of a shape that embodies unity and wholeness.

**Material and Structural Composition**
The material selection is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and structural performance. Large glass panels comprise the facade, ensuring ample natural light and providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape. A wooden framework, likely utilizing engineered timber, supports the glazing, contributing both warmth and structural integrity. Interior spaces feature wooden flooring, enhancing the organic feel of the environment. Additionally, metal components are incorporated into the structure to ensure durability. Sustainable material choices have also been considered, aligning with the project's focus on ecological impact.

**Spatial Functionality and Design Features**
The spatial organization includes two rooms designed to accommodate four individuals, a common area for social interaction, and functional bathrooms. A dedicated yoga and meditation hall, highlighted by a glass dome, serves as the centerpiece of the project, allowing for an immersive experience with nature. This flexible layout supports a range of activities, promoting a lifestyle centered around wellness and mindfulness. The interplay of natural light and the warmth of wood enhances the inviting atmosphere, reinforcing the thoughtful integration of architecture with the surrounding environment.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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