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 Flexible Spaces in a Meditative Retreat

Authors:
Aylin Yıldız, Dilara Gökyokuş
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces in a Meditative Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing charred wooden shingles and movable panels, the design creates a serene and adaptable retreat that integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, promoting meditation and well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique labyrinth cooling system that leverages natural earth temperatures.
02
Incorporates a flexible interior with convertible floor components for multifunctional use.
03
Features large movable panels on the façade to control light and airflow dynamically.
04
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural performance.
05
Integrates a Trombe wall for efficient passive solar heating throughout the year.

The architectural design project titled "Quite and Balanced Mind" is positioned in Riga, Latvia, with a focus on creating a meditative retreat space that fosters mindfulness and reflection. This project is characterized by its thoughtful integration with the natural surroundings, promoting a sense of tranquility through both its form and function. The design seeks to provide users with an immersive experience that engages the senses and supports various modes of living.

Sustainability is a core aspect of this architectural endeavor, with the structure employing materials that emphasize environmental responsibility. The A-frame design features large glass windows that facilitate natural lighting and provide panoramic views of the surrounding forest, effectively blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. The wooden cladding evokes warmth while maintaining a connection with the landscape. This careful selection of materials contributes to the overall functionality and aesthetic appeal of the retreat.

Flexible spaces are a hallmark of this design, with features such as a convertible floor that accommodates different user needs, be it as a bed or a table. The facade's movable panels allow for customization of light and ventilation, adapting to varying weather conditions and personal preferences. This approach enhances user interaction with both the architecture and the environment, enabling occupants to tailor their experience within the space.

Innovative design strategies are evident throughout the project. The incorporation of a Trombe wall serves as an effective passive heating solution, utilizing solar gain to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Additionally, the labyrinth cooling system leverages natural earth temperatures for climate control, further emphasizing the project's commitment to sustainability. Water management is addressed through a rainwater harvesting system, allowing for responsible usage in gardening and other applications. The use of a dry toilet system underscores the emphasis on ecological practices, promoting a self-sufficient lifestyle for its inhabitants.

Key elements of this architectural design include the large triangular windows, flexible interior configurations, and the emphasis on sensory engagement. The interplay of materials, light, and space serves to create a calming environment conducive to meditation and self-reflection. The project stands apart from conventional designs through its focus on user interaction, adaptability, and sustainability principles, making it a relevant model in contemporary architecture.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and further details of "Quite and Balanced Mind," please make sure to review the comprehensive project presentation for a deeper understanding of its unique architectural ideas and design methodologies.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025
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