Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Tranquil Meditation Retreat

Author:
Phill Mashabane
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Tranquil Meditation Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Drawing from the natural aesthetics of charred wooden shingles and the structural benefits of cross-laminated timber panels, this retreat integrates seamlessly with its forested surroundings to provide a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural efficiency and thermal performance.
03
Incorporates natural ventilation strategies to optimize airflow and comfort.
04
Includes accessible design elements to cater to diverse user needs within the retreat.
05
Integrates a lavender garden that enhances the site's beauty and serves as a natural insect repellent.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins project is an architectural endeavor designed to create a serene space for meditation and contemplation within a natural setting. Situated in a forested area adjacent to a body of water, this project emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature while providing essential facilities for its users. The design incorporates elements that promote mindfulness and a holistic approach to relaxing experiences.

Multi-Functional Design Approach

One of the stand-out attributes of this project is its multi-functional spatial arrangement. Each cabin features designated areas for various forms of meditation, including open floor zones, desk-based workspaces for contemplative practices, and convertible sleeping quarters. This versatility allows for individual use as well as potential group activities. Additionally, the layout ensures seamless transitions between different environments, catering to the diverse needs of users.

The cabins utilize materials that enhance the user experience and environmental integration. Primarily constructed from locally-sourced timber, the design incorporates plywood sheathing and timber shingles, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth. These materials are sustainable, conforming to eco-conscious practices while blending into the forest landscape. Moreover, the incorporation of natural ventilation and cooling strategies reflects a design philosophy that prioritizes sustainability and minimizing carbon footprints.

Spatial Orientation and Integration with Nature

The architectural design emphasizes the importance of spatial orientation. The arrangement of the cabins takes into account natural elements such as light and wind, ensuring that users benefit from optimal environmental conditions for meditation and relaxation. This design approach encourages a connection with the outdoors while maintaining comfort indoors.

Unique features further distinguish the Silent Meditation Forest Cabins from similar projects. The inclusion of lavender in the design not only enhances the visual landscape but also serves to repel insects, effectively combining functionality and beauty. Waste management systems are integrated into the project, promoting sustainable practices through composting that transforms organic waste into fertilizer.

The overall architectural form embraces a contemporary aesthetic interwoven with natural textures. This harmonious blending fosters a calming atmosphere, inviting users to engage intentionally with their surroundings. Visitors can expect to find a tranquil environment that is both nurturing and energizing, supporting a restorative experience.

To explore this project further, including its architectural plans, sections, and design details, readers are encouraged to engage with the complete project presentation for a deeper understanding of its unique architectural ideas.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5

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

`
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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Iceland 
Slow Sauna

Design slow sauna in Iceland

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 November 2025
Concrete 
Pavilion

Design a concrete pavilion

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
new
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 21 January 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

new
The Architect’s 
Stair

Take a step and make a statement!

Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 October 2025
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 October 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
new
The Home of 
Shadows

Design a home with no artificial lighting

The light studies. Edition #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility OPEN TO ALL
Early bird registration deadline 5 November 2025
The Last 
Nuclear Bomb Memorial

Design a memorial that speaks to the cause of ending all nuclear weapons programs

Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 13 November 2025
new
The Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 20 November 2025
Hospice - 
Home for the 
Terminally ill

Design a safe and supportive space to those struggling with a terminal illness

Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 10,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #7 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #2 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 3 December 2025

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy