Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Embracing Natural Stone and Sustainable Design

Authors:
Luke Carter, Dain Mcclure-thomas, Mukesh Vanjani
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Embracing Natural Stone and Sustainable Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with cross-laminated timber and natural stone, this small retreat integrates sustainable features like rainwater collection and greywater systems to create a meditative space for self-reflection in a forested setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from locally sourced cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates a greywater recycling system for efficient water management.
03
Features large operable windows to facilitate natural ventilation and light.
04
Designed with adjustable awnings to control sunlight and wind exposure.
05
Includes a stone wash basin crafted from natural materials to integrate with the landscape.

The "Cabin of One Oneness" is a design project located in a tranquil forest setting, crafted to serve as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection. This architectural work emphasizes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The project showcases a minimalistic approach, utilizing natural materials to foster a sense of serenity and connection with nature. The cabin's open floor plan and large windows facilitate an unobstructed view of the forest, reinforcing the idea of a space that enhances introspection and tranquility.

Sustainable design principles are integral to the project, which focuses on functionality while maintaining ecological responsibility. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is the primary construction material, chosen for its durability and environmental benefits. Features such as rainwater collection systems, greywater recycling, and the use of non-toxic materials highlight the project's commitment to sustainability.

Connection with Nature and Unique Design Elements

At the heart of the "Cabin of One Oneness" is the concept of creating a space that promotes an intimate experience with nature. Large operable windows allow natural light to flood the interior, while providing visual access to the exterior environment. Adjustable awnings enhance comfort by controlling sunlight and airflow. The design includes essential living amenities—such as a stone wash basin, a wood combustion stove, and a cozy sleeping area—crafted from natural materials that draw from the surrounding landscape.

What sets this project apart from typical retreats is its philosophical underpinning centered on solitude and mindfulness. The cabin is designed not simply as a physical structure, but as a facilitatory space for personal rituals and reflection. By intertwining architecture with spiritual practice, it encourages users to engage in deep self-exploration and connection with their environment.

Sustainable Architecture and Materiality

The material choices reinforce the project's sustainable ethos. The use of Cross Laminated Timber not only provides structural integrity but also minimizes the ecological footprint typical of conventional construction materials. Natural stone is incorporated into the design for functional elements such as the wash basin, further integrating the cabin with its natural context. The use of ethanol lanterns and wood stoves ensures off-grid energy solutions, aligning with the project's vision for self-sufficient living.

In summary, the "Cabin of One Oneness" represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture that prioritizes a deep bond with nature through careful material selection and an emphasis on sustainable practices. This design project serves both as a physical sanctuary and a philosophical space. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs, it is encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of the unique architectural ideas represented here.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

`
Competition organisers

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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
The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025
new
Iceland 
Slow Sauna

Design slow sauna in Iceland

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 November 2025
Concrete 
Pavilion

Design a concrete pavilion

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
new
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 21 January 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

new
The Home of 
Shadows

Design a home with no artificial lighting

The light studies. Edition #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility OPEN TO ALL
Early bird registration deadline 5 November 2025
The Last 
Nuclear Bomb Memorial

Design a memorial that speaks to the cause of ending all nuclear weapons programs

Edition #6 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 13 November 2025
new
The Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 20 November 2025
Hospice - 
Home for the 
Terminally ill

Design a safe and supportive space to those struggling with a terminal illness

Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 10,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #7 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 27 November 2025
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 #2 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 3 December 2025
The Architect’s 
Stair

Take a step and make a statement!

Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 January 2026
new
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
Early bird registration deadline 26 February 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