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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Nature-Focused Meditation Retreat

Author:
Bo-sheng You
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Nature-Focused Meditation Retreat
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, this meditation retreat merges sustainable materials with a design that emphasizes tranquility and connection to nature, fostering an environment conducive to reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates extensive glass elements to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes structural efficiency and distinctive visual appeal.
04
Integrates private retreats designed for personal contemplation within a communal environment.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through the use of cross-laminated timber panels and energy-efficient construction methods.

## Overview

The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is located in downtown Latvia, designed as a retreat for individuals pursuing physical and spiritual relaxation through meditation. The project aims to offer an escape from the urban environment, allowing for a deeper connection with nature. The architectural approach emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings, fostering an atmosphere conducive to self-reflection and well-being.

## Site Layout and User Interaction

The site layout is intentionally designed to promote connectivity with nature, incorporating various pathways and open spaces that encourage exploration and engagement. Key features include an expansive main garden that serves as a tranquil area for meditation, as well as private retreat spaces for individual contemplation. The meditation hall is designed with large openings for natural light while maintaining privacy through carefully planned landscaping. These elements are integrated to enhance the visitor experience, allowing for immersive interaction with the natural landscape.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials chosen for the camp reflect a commitment to sustainability and a respect for the local context. Predominantly featuring wood, the design echoes Latvia's architectural heritage while also promoting environmental responsibility. Glass elements are incorporated to foster transparency and facilitate views of the surrounding nature, while concrete is utilized for its durability in foundational aspects. The inclusion of locally sourced stone elements reinforces the project's permanence and connection to the area’s geological features. This focus on materiality not only supports environmental initiatives but also reinforces the holistic wellness philosophy central to the camp's purpose.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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