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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Tranquil Meditation Retreat Amidst Nature

Authors:
Deniz Sagir, Zeynep Efeoglu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Tranquil Meditation Retreat Amidst Nature

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the design creates a harmonious meditation retreat that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, providing a tranquil environment for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to maximize interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates extensive glazing to foster visual connections with the surrounding landscape.
05
Includes multiple private bungalows to enhance personal reflection within a communal setting.

The Meditation Camp project is an architectural endeavor designed to serve as a refuge for individuals seeking tranquility and introspection. Strategically situated within a natural landscape, this project emphasizes the harmony between built environments and the surrounding ecosystems. The primary function of the design is to facilitate meditation, relaxation, and personal reflection, catering to both individual and group needs. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces promotes a sense of serenity, allowing occupants to connect deeply with nature.

Integration of Existing Structures

One of the defining attributes of the Meditation Camp is its thoughtful integration of existing structures with new architectural elements. The design retains a former larger building while introducing new facilities, including a meditation house, guest accommodations, and support structures such as saunas and dining areas. This approach not only honors the historical significance of the original building but also adds modern functionalities that enhance the overall user experience.

Materials play a critical role in this project, with a predominant use of wood, stone, glass, concrete, and steel. The wooden façade creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while stone walls provide a sense of permanence. Large glass windows and openings establish visual connections to the outdoors, maximizing exposure to natural light and promoting a feeling of openness. This combination of materials is a fundamental aspect of the design, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental sensitivity.

Functional Zones and Spatial Organization

The layout of the Meditation Camp is carefully organized into distinct functional zones that cater to various activities and experiences. The central meditation hall serves as a communal gathering space for group practices, while private bungalows offer individual retreats for solitude and contemplation. Additional facilities include a library and a restaurant, designed to support the communal aspect of the retreat while preserving an atmosphere conducive to personal reflection.

Circulation paths are intentionally designed to facilitate movement between these zones, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition from communal areas to private spaces. Each element of the design reinforces a holistic approach to wellness, ensuring that movement encourages reflection and relaxation.

Innovative Design Considerations

The unique design approaches that distinguish this project include the emphasis on natural light, the strategic use of landscape views, and an understanding of materiality. Large glass openings not only invite nature inside but also enhance energy efficiency through passive solar gain. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates dynamic interior environments that remain engaging.

Additionally, the balance between the old and new structures serves as a critical design strategy. By contrasting the textures and forms of existing stone walls with the modern materials of the new construction, the design highlights the evolution of the site while creating a cohesive architectural narrative. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and respect for the site’s heritage.

The Meditation Camp project exemplifies an architectural response to the growing need for spaces that prioritize mental and emotional well-being. Its functional design, material integrity, and respectful integration of history creates a meaningful environment for meditation and reflection. To gain deeper insights into this architectural endeavor, explore the project presentation, which includes architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements. These resources provide an overview of the structural decisions and design philosophies that underpin this thoughtful project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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