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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 Next House: USA
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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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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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