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Core Design with Prefabricated Wood and White Canvas for Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Tuan Mai, Han Dang
Core Design with Prefabricated Wood and White Canvas for Mindful Retreat
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Incorporating a core design with prefabricated wood and a white canvas facade, the retreat offers a serene environment for meditation and self-reflection, fostering a strong connection between users and their natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a Square Twist Pattern to enhance spatial flow.
02
A central core houses essential systems, optimizing functionality.
03
Local wood used throughout emphasizes connection to the environment.
04
Flexible spaces promote different forms of meditation and mindfulness.
05
The cabin mimics the form of a pine tree, blending with its surroundings.

The MindFOLDness design is situated in a peaceful natural environment, created as a retreat focused on meditation and self-reflection. The cabin aims to promote mindfulness and calmness, incorporating elements inspired by Zen philosophy. The design uses the concept of Origami Meditation, translating the gentle art of folding into an architectural space that encourages users to connect deeply with their surroundings.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is the idea of being fully present in each moment. The layout is divided into specific zones for walking and sitting meditation, allowing flexibility for various practices. Four main programs—Free, Fresh, Charge, and Sense—have been developed to cater to different facets of mental and physical wellness. These areas facilitate a personalized and meaningful experience for visitors.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of the cabin is intentional, encouraging smooth movement between different meditative activities. The form of the structure resembles a pine tree, creating a visual link with the natural landscape. This relationship with nature is not just about how the cabin looks; it also invites users to connect with the environment in a more profound way. The Square Twist Pattern used in the deck design reflects the theme of origami, tying the visual elements together.

Materials and Structure

The construction relies on a prefabricated wood framework, balancing strength and ease of assembly. Local wood is utilized to firmly ground the cabin within its context. Features such as a fabric zip door provide adaptability to the space. White canvas fabric used throughout contributes to a light and spacious interior, allowing natural light to flow in and fostering a sense of tranquility.

Design Details

The core of the cabin includes essential systems that support the activities in each meditation zone. This careful layout helps move users easily from one area to another. Design details encourage reflection, making the environment thoughtful and engaging. The interplay of light and shadow within the cabin fosters a mindful atmosphere, inviting users to immerse themselves in an experience of calm and contemplation.

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Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

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Competition organisers

The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions 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).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

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
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

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