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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Serene Meditation Sanctuary

Authors:
Martin Knap, Mauricio Gobera
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Serene Meditation Sanctuary
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Constructed using charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the meditation sanctuary harmonizes with its surroundings to provide a tranquil space designed for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a reflection pool that integrates with the site’s natural landscape.
05
Offers flexible spaces for both individual and group meditation practices.

The Sacred Cube is an architectural project designed to serve as a meditation sanctuary with a focus on connection to nature. This structure reflects a commitment to creating serene environments that facilitate mindfulness and contemplation. It incorporates elements of sacred geometry in its design, emphasizing an intentional spatial arrangement that nurtures both personal and group meditation practices. The building seeks to minimize its ecological footprint while maximizing user interaction with the landscape.

The architecture is characterized by its modular design and functional layout. It features two levels, with the ground level open to the natural environment, providing spaces that support activities without interrupting the surroundings. The first level houses the primary meditation room, providing an intimate atmosphere complemented by sliding glass windows. These design choices ensure that light and air flow into the space, maintaining a connection to the outside environment and raising the quality of the user experience.

Material selection is a pivotal aspect of the project. Wood, specifically treated using the Shou Sugi Ban technique, offers durability while enhancing aesthetic warmth. Glass walls facilitate transparency and light, encouraging interaction between interior spaces and the exterior surroundings. The use of aluminum sliding windows adds functionality while adhering to the project’s sustainability ethos.

Sustainable design approaches make the Sacred Cube distinct from similar projects. The integration of water features, such as reflection pools, promotes tranquility and enhances the sensory experience of meditative practices. The modular nature of the design offers flexibility; interior spaces can be adapted for individual use or group gatherings, making it an inclusive environment for various practices.

The project successfully demonstrates a harmonious balance between architecture and nature. Each element is designed to resonate with users while providing a cohesive structure that respects the surrounding landscape.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas behind the Sacred Cube, interested readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for a comprehensive overview of its elements and intended functionalities.

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

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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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