Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cocoon Retreat Constructed from Waterproof and Fireproof Paper

Authors:
Xiaoyang Yu, Yihan Wang
Cocoon Retreat Constructed from Waterproof and Fireproof Paper
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed from waterproof and fireproof treated paper, the meditation space offers a unique cocoon-like retreat in the heart of Tokyo, designed to provide a moment of emotional relief for urban dwellers seeking quick respite from daily pressures.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from waterproof and fireproof treated paper.
02
Designed to accommodate short meditation sessions of 10 to 20 minutes.
03
Emphasizes privacy through a cocoon-like structure.
04
Strategically placed in urban neighborhoods for easy access.
05
Aims to provide emotional relief in a high-pressure environment.

The design located in Tokyo addresses the need for a peaceful space in an environment known for its fast pace. It serves as a meditation area, intended for short visits where individuals can find mental and emotional relief. With a focus on creating a flexible and recyclable space, the design fits into crowded neighborhoods, allowing easy access without disrupting daily life.

Design Concept

The main idea behind the design is to create a place where people can escape from their everyday stress. The concept uses the image of a cocoon to symbolize personal change and growth. This metaphor suggests that users can experience a sense of freedom and renewal during their short stays. By emphasizing transformation, the design encourages individuals to reflect and release pent-up emotions.

User Experience

Comfort and privacy are central to the user experience. The space is designed to feel familiar and inviting, similar to a fitting room. Sessions are quick, typically lasting between ten to twenty minutes, allowing users to recharge without feeling rushed. The layout supports a personal atmosphere, so individuals can engage in quiet contemplation or express their feelings freely, offering a refuge from the busy city outside.

Materiality

Materials play a significant role in the design. Waterproof and fireproof treated paper are used, chosen for their durability and eco-friendly nature. The selection of these materials reflects the aim of providing support for users while keeping construction costs reasonable. This choice enhances the practicality of the design, ensuring it can endure the demands of an urban setting.

The idea of a cocoon is visible throughout the design, providing a consistent theme that connects users to the concept of transformation. The space is crafted to invite people in, offering a momentary escape from their surroundings. This emphasis on emotional well-being enriches the experience, allowing individuals to pause and reflect amid the bustling energy of Tokyo.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy