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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Tranquil Meditation Camp Emphasizing Sustainability

Authors:
Canon Manley, Chase Parrish, Toni Cliett
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Tranquil Meditation Camp Emphasizing Sustainability
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the design integrates sustainable practices to create a contemplative retreat that fosters mindfulness and well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid assembly and structural efficiency.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates a community farm adjacent to dining facilities to support sustainable living.
05
Reflects Latvian cultural motifs in the design of meditation spaces, enhancing local identity.

### Overview

Located near the Daugava River in Riga, this project aims to develop a multi-faceted meditation camp that embodies the principles of Truth, Austerity, Cleanliness, and Mercy. The design serves as a space for spiritual practices rooted in the concept of Dharma, integrating cultural, environmental, and ethical dimensions to align with Latvian traditions. It is intended to offer an immersive environment that facilitates mindfulness, self-awareness, and community-oriented living.

### Site Planning and User Experience

The layout of the camp is strategically organized to follow the natural contours of the landscape, creating an organic flow that reflects the movement of the Daugava River. Pathways are designed to enhance accessibility between essential facilities, including dining, lodging, and meditation areas, thereby reinforcing the interconnected nature of the four foundational pillars. The meditation area incorporates elements drawn from Latvian culture, such as PUZUR ornaments and stork nest forms, fostering a sense of regional identity while enhancing the contemplative experience. Elevated meditation stands further enrich the user experience by providing a peaceful interface with nature.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices

The project emphasizes a commitment to environmental stewardship through thoughtful material selection. Natural stone is utilized for its structural integrity and aesthetic qualities, while sustainably sourced wood contributes warmth and a connection to the surrounding environment. Reinforced steel features in retractable roof designs, signifying resilience and modernity. Solar panels are incorporated into roofing configurations, facilitating renewable energy generation to support the camp's sustainability goals. Adjacent to the dining facility, a community farm implements organic and regenerative farming practices focused on plant-based nutrition, underscoring the project's commitment to ecological balance and holistic living.

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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

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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