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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 Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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