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Circular Overlapping Plates Create a Meditative Space for Reflection

Author:
Kenan Vatrenjak
Circular Overlapping Plates Create a Meditative Space for Reflection
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A circular arrangement of overlapping plates forms a space that fosters reflection and interaction with nature, serving as a retreat for processing flower essences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular plates create visual connections with the landscape.
02
Altar mechanism utilizes winches and ropes for adaptability.
03
Design fosters a meditative environment for introspection.
04
Pathway engages occupants with the surrounding nature.
05
Glimpses of sunlight filter through the overlapping plates.

“Tiny Boundless” is an architectural intervention that creates a connection between its occupants and the surrounding landscape. Located along a designated path, the cabin serves as a focal point, guiding visitors to pay attention to both the journey and their interaction with nature. The design concept aims to create a space for reflection and awareness while also maintaining a close relationship with the environment.

Pathway Design

The path leading to the cabin rises over a small bridge, inviting exploration as it transitions from the outside world to the interior space. This approach encourages visitors to engage with the landscape from the very beginning, enhancing their experience as they move toward the cabin. The elevation adds visual interest and emphasizes the act of moving closer to the retreat.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the cabin is defined by a circular arrangement of overlapping plates. This unique layout allows for glimpses of the natural surroundings, with sunlight filtering through the openings to light up the interior. The design strikes a balance between feeling enclosed and open, creating a relationship between isolation and connection to nature. This interplay enriches the overall visitor experience.

Altar and Mechanism

At the top of the cabin is an altar designed for processing flower essences, which utilizes a sailing ship mechanism featuring winches and ropes for adjusting its position. This thoughtful feature integrates practical elements into the design while encouraging interaction. The altar serves as a central point of interest and highlights the project’s intention to engage visitors in a hands-on manner.

Material and Light Interaction

Although specific materials are not mentioned in the presentation, the design focuses on how light interacts with space. The overlapping plates create a dynamic play of shadows and highlights, changing throughout the day. This balance of design, light, and nature captures the essence of the cabin’s goal to strengthen the relationship between occupants and their surroundings.

The cabin concludes with a space that fosters a rich experience, merging functionality with a deep connection to the natural world.

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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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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

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