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Cocoon-Like Retreat in Wood for Quiet Reflection

Authors:
Xena Kalouti, Khalid Jadallah
Cocoon-Like Retreat in Wood for Quiet Reflection
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A cocoon-like structure crafted from wood offers an elevated sanctuary amidst the Latvian forest, designed specifically for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cocoon-like enclosure enhances privacy while allowing natural light penetration.
02
Elevated structure maintains ecological integrity of the forest floor.
03
Design incorporates Sufi philosophy to foster inner reflection.
04
A mix of organic contours and angular elements promotes spatial exploration.
05
Wooden composition provides warmth and tactile connection to nature.

Silent Meditation Forest Cabin is a thoughtfully designed retreat located in the quiet landscapes of Latvia. It serves as a space for meditation and self-reflection, allowing occupants to step away from the distractions of everyday life. The design concept is rooted in philosophical ideas drawn from Sufism, focusing on the connection between inner experiences and the surrounding environment.

Spatial Configuration

The layout of the cabin is carefully considered, integrating it into the forest while using an elevated terrace for access. This raised area provides a platform that lifts visitors above the forest floor, offering views of the surrounding trees and natural beauty. The design respects the land and enhances the experience of being in a tranquil setting, encouraging a sense of peace and connection with nature.

Structural Elements

The primary material used in the cabin's construction is wood, chosen for its warmth and natural appeal. The raised wooden floor grounds the structure in its surroundings, while the edges of the terrace feature a carefully arranged configuration of wooden pieces. This design creates a cocoon-like enclosure that offers a sense of protection as well as a visual connection to the outside, allowing occupants to feel sheltered while still engaging with the natural environment.

Architectural Form

The form of the cabin includes a circular cocoon that is paired with angular elements, achieving a balance between privacy and openness. This interplay creates a space that invites occupants to explore and engage with their surroundings. The height of the cabin is thoughtfully designed to draw the eye upward toward the trees overhead, connecting the space to both earth and sky in a meaningful way.

Large windows frame views of the forest, allowing natural light to flood the interior and highlight the textures of the wood. As light shifts throughout the day, it creates a changing atmosphere that enhances the meditative quality of the space. The design encourages a deep connection to the forest, offering a setting where quiet reflection can occur, grounded in the simple beauty of the surroundings.

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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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