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Cubic Retreat Crafted from Wood with Geo Screw Foundations

Author:
Dmytro Aranchii
Cubic Retreat Crafted from Wood with Geo Screw Foundations
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Constructed with a cubic wooden structure and supported by geo screws, the retreat emphasizes adaptability and sustainability, providing a tranquil space for meditation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cubic design that enhances spatial efficiency and functionality.
02
Constructed with wood, meeting cradle-to-cradle certification standards.
03
Geo screws minimize soil disturbance during installation.
04
Meditation area easily converts into a bedroom.
05
Encourages use of natural reservoirs for bathing.

Unit E is an architectural design located in the natural landscapes of Latvia, serving as a retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The primary goal is to help individuals reconnect with nature while providing adaptable living spaces that promote relaxation and contemplation. The design focuses on simplicity and practicality, creating a peaceful environment where users can restore their inner energy and find balance.

Design Concept

The cubic shape of Unit E clearly reflects its connection to the environment. The minimalistic exterior allows it to merge quietly with the landscape, enhancing its presence without overpowering the surroundings. This straightforward design also allows for easy transport and quick setup in various locations, whether in a forest or on a city rooftop.



Flexibility of Space

Unit E emphasizes flexible use of space. The meditation area is designed to convert into a bedroom, and this transition can happen rapidly, catering to different user needs. Such adaptability enriches the experience and aligns with a contemporary lifestyle that values practical and comfortable living spaces.



Sustainable Amenities

The project includes various practical amenities to support a low-impact lifestyle. Lockers provide personal storage, an oven allows for meal preparation, and a composting toilet manages waste sustainably. These features help maintain a smaller environmental footprint. Encouraging bathing in nearby natural water sources further strengthens the connection to the surrounding environment, promoting direct engagement with nature.



Materiality

Unit E is built using materials that meet strict sustainability standards. The primary structural element is wood, complemented by wood fiber loose-fill insulation for the walls, roof, and floor. Geo screws serve as the main bracing component, ensuring minimal impact on the soil while allowing for diverse placement options.

Large openings let in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This design choice enhances the overall experience, making it a place that feels connected to its surroundings.

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

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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.

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