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Circular Sanctuary of Timber and Concrete Enveloped in Nature

Authors:
Diane Stierli, Candice Baldy
Circular Sanctuary of Timber and Concrete Enveloped in Nature
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Set within a tranquil landscape, a circular space crafted from timber and concrete invites visitors to engage in meditation and reflection, emphasizing a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances flow and connection to nature.
02
Timber and concrete integration reflects sustainability goals.
03
Ladder features symbolize personal exploration and growth.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings.
05
Meditation space uses continuous curtains for a soft boundary.

The Earth Energies Sanctuary is a space designed for individuals seeking a connection to nature and personal reflection. Set against a tranquil landscape, the sanctuary promotes feelings of peace through its thoughtfully crafted spaces. The central concept emphasizes circular forms and open arrangements that encourage engagement with the environment. This location serves as a meditative retreat, aiming to help visitors reconnect both with the natural world and their inner selves.

Design Elements

Circular spaces create a sense of safety and warmth within the sanctuary. By forgoing traditional walls, the design incorporates continuous curtains. These elements enable a fluid boundary that invites a natural flow between inside and outside. This approach not only enhances the experience of meditation but also encourages deeper exploration and connection.

Natural Light

Natural light plays a vital role in shaping the interiors of the sanctuary. Openings have been carefully placed to allow sunlight to filter inside, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The shifting light throughout the day brings a lively energy to the interior, enriching the overall experience for those who enter.

Material Integration

Materials in the sanctuary are chosen for their practicality and visual appeal. Various forms of wood, such as roof battens, timber beams, and cladding, contribute to the inviting character of the space. The choice of these materials helps ground the design in its surroundings while ensuring durability. Insulation is also a part of the plan, promoting comfort and acknowledging environmental considerations.

Elevated Perspectives

Ladders within the sanctuary represent the journey of self-discovery. These features invite users to view their surroundings from new heights, enhancing their awareness of the landscape. The upward movement encourages contemplation, reinforcing the themes of personal growth and exploration integral to the sanctuary's purpose.

A circular opening at the top of the roof provides views of birds in flight, creating a link between indoor and outdoor spaces. This detail adds a layer of connection to the sky and the broader ecosystem, enriching the sanctuary's atmosphere. The experience of observing nature reinforces the intention behind the design, reminding visitors of their relationship with the 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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