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Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Surrounded by Natural Landscape Elements

Author:
Stefano Nicolussi
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Surrounded by Natural Landscape Elements
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber and enhanced by charred wooden shingles, the meditation retreat integrates seamlessly into its natural environment, offering a tranquil space for reflection and wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from cross-laminated timber, enhancing sustainability and structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and an aesthetically appealing finish.
03
Underground garden integrated into the design fosters biodiversity and interactive experiences.
04
Natural ventilation systems optimize air quality while minimizing energy consumption.
05
A bent A-frame design contributes to functional space while blending with the natural topography.

## Project Overview

Located in Madona, Latvia, the meditation facility emphasizes a symbiotic relationship with the surrounding landscape, mirroring the region's rich forests and serene natural environments. The design seeks to integrate innovative architecture with a focus on sustainability and community engagement, providing a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.

### Spatial Dynamics

The layout comprises three distinct zones: a guest area for visitors, a mediation and relaxation zone featuring an underground garden and meditation chambers, and a private home for owners. This organization ensures comfort while facilitating connections to the natural surroundings. The geometry of the site is intricately linked to its environment, with careful consideration of existing trees and pathways. This thoughtful placement of building volumes promotes both privacy and communal interaction, employing a "shape-shaping" technique that harmonizes built forms with the natural landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Sustainability principles inform the selection of materials, highlighting an emphasis on ecologically responsible choices. The structural framework utilizes laminated timber (Klam wood) for its strength and environmental benefits, while aluminum and metal sheets are incorporated for their durability in roofing and cladding. Interior spaces feature plaster and concrete finishes, contributing to the overall aesthetic. Notably, the design includes green roof systems that integrate the building into the landscape, fostering microclimates that enhance cooling and insulation. Additionally, systems for water collection and recycling signify a commitment to resource management alongside the installation of photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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