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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Sanctuary for Mindfulness

Author:
Adrianna Lewandowska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Sanctuary for Mindfulness
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design establishes a tranquil retreat that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings to promote mindfulness and well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sustainable charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to achieve structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Designed with flexible spaces that can accommodate various meditation practices and communal activities.
05
Integrates local stone into the foundation to establish a connection with the surrounding landscape.

### Overview
The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is situated in a tranquil riverside setting in Latvia, designed as a retreat for self-reflection and meditation. Its intent is to foster mental well-being by establishing a strong connection between architecture and the natural environment. By utilizing ecological materials, the design aims to create spaces that promote tranquility and contemplation.

### Spatial Organization
The camp features a series of interconnected spaces that cater to various aspects of meditation and group engagement. Key areas include flexible meditation spaces, which incorporate expansive openings to facilitate both guided and individual practices. The layout encourages movement and exploration while directing visitors toward intimate corners for personal reflection. Additionally, a designated silence chamber, characterized by minimalistic finishes and ambient lighting, provides a sanctuary for solitude and deep relaxation. Communal dining and gathering areas are designed with an open-plan approach, fostering interaction and a sense of community among guests while maintaining visual connectivity with outdoor surroundings.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials selected for the project reflect both aesthetic values and functional capabilities. Wood serves as a primary structural component, chosen for its warmth and insulation properties, fostering a sense of comfort. Stone is utilized for both foundational and decorative purposes, ensuring durability and visual coherence with the landscape while supporting local sourcing principles. Large expanses of glass in windows and skylights enhance transparency, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces and continually adjust the atmosphere throughout the day.

The design integrates local architectural elements reminiscent of traditional Latvian barns, adapted for contemporary use. By emphasizing the use of sustainably sourced materials and optimizing natural light and airflow, the project minimizes energy consumption while fostering a genuine connection with the surrounding environment.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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