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Contemplative Space Constructed with Darkened Plywood and Natural Stone

Authors:
Stephen Ferroni, Tristan Clauson
Contemplative Space Constructed with Darkened Plywood and Natural Stone
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Constructed with darkened plywood and complemented by natural stone, the design creates a contemplative environment that enhances the yoga experience while seamlessly connecting the interior space to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with darkened plywood for weather resistance.
02
Features an open drainage system for sustainable water management.
03
Positioned to maximize views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Incorporates natural stone elements for structural integrity.
05
Designed to create distinct areas for personal contemplation.

The yoga cabin is designed to fit harmoniously within its natural landscape, marked by distinct topographical features and a predominantly wooden environment. The concept highlights how perspectives and spatial experiences can be shaped to enhance the relationship between the building and its surroundings. The cabin is intended for both functional use and personal reflection, encouraging users to connect deeply with nature during their practice.

Spatial Organization

Inside the cabin, a prominent wall serves as a central element that organizes the layout. This wall creates individual spaces while also accommodating essential features like the fireplace, kitchenette, and utility connections for water, power, and smoke exhaust. The arrangement is practical and straightforward, allowing for easy movement through the cabin while clearly defining different areas.

Sensory Experience

A notable aspect of the design is the open drain floor in the shower area, which allows water to flow into cisterns, contributing to sustainable practices. This feature adds an auditory element to the space. The gentle sound of running water creates a calming atmosphere. Skylights throughout the cabin bring in natural light, enhancing the mood and providing different lighting conditions at various times of the day.

Connection to Landscape

The yoga room is oriented to take advantage of the surrounding views. This layout helps practitioners feel connected to the outdoors during their sessions. The balanced arrangement encourages users to look outward, fostering mindfulness in the practice. By adjusting perspectives and scales, the design enhances the connection between the cabin’s interior and the expansive landscape outside, enriching the experience of yoga.

Material Considerations

The materials chosen for the construction include darkened plywood, which is treated for durability in outdoor conditions, and cork, selected for its insulating properties. Stone elements are used within steel cages, with poured concrete serving as lintels to create divisions that maintain proportionate human scales. The selection of these materials is deliberate, ensuring that the cabin is both durable and visually in tune with its environment.

The interplay of light through various openings and the tactile quality of materials contribute to a layered experience within the cabin. This design allows users to appreciate the relationship between the interior spaces and the scenic views outside, creating a space for contemplation and connection with nature.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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