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Chimney Vent and Stone Stairs Enhance Serenity in a Meditation Space

Author:
Grant Mears
Chimney Vent and Stone Stairs Enhance Serenity in a Meditation Space
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A chimney vent and stone stairs complement the tranquil meditation room, creating a harmonious environment that emphasizes natural light and user accessibility for reflective practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation room designed for sound quality and comfort.
02
Integrated stone stairs connecting different levels of the site.
03
Chimney vent enhances air circulation and maintains tranquility.
04
Natural light maximized through strategic window placement.
05
Pond designed as a serene backdrop for meditation activities.

The design is located in a tranquil area designed for meditation and self-reflection. It prioritizes a strong connection to nature while providing a clear and functional layout. Key spaces within the design include a meditation room, bath facilities, and areas for communal use. The main concept focuses on creating a peaceful environment through careful spatial planning and natural elements.

Meditation Room Design
At the core of the design is the meditation room, crafted to embody a calming atmosphere. Its size and layout are intended to promote openness and comfort, allowing for various meditation practices. The proportions of the room have been thoughtfully selected to improve sound quality, creating an ideal setting for quiet contemplation.

Circulation and Flow
The design incorporates a thoughtful approach to circulation that encourages easy movement across different areas. Passages connect the meditation room with facilities for bathing, storage, and social interaction. This design minimizes disruptions and guides users naturally throughout the space, enhancing their overall experience.

Integration with Nature
Natural elements such as a pond and gardens play a significant role in the design. The pond adds beauty and serves as a serene backdrop for meditation. Gardens complement the building, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This relationship helps cultivate mindfulness and relaxation for users.

Light and Space Dynamics
Careful attention is given to the placement of windows and openings, which maximize the flow of natural light. This feature enriches the interior environment and creates interesting contrasts of light and shadow. The dynamic changes throughout the day add to the sense of well-being within spaces, reinforcing their purpose for meditation and reflection.

A chimney vent has been included to improve air circulation, ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere inside while maintaining a calm quality. Such thoughtful details underline the intention of creating a dedicated environment that supports personal growth and mindfulness.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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