Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Curved Windows and Plywood Layers Create a Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Roman Sokolowsky, Clément Denans
Curved Windows and Plywood Layers Create a Mindful Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Curved windows seamlessly integrate the calming presence of nature into the wood cabin's design, while 9mm plywood and ample insulation enhance thermal comfort, making it an ideal retreat for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved windows enhance natural light and views, fostering a connection with the outdoors.
02
Constructed primarily from 9mm exterior plywood, supporting both structure and insulation.
03
The cabin's design allows for seasonal adaptability, maintaining comfort year-round.
04
Interior spaces are intentionally designed to facilitate mindfulness and contemplation.
05
CNC-cutting techniques ensure precise execution of the organic shape.

The Nutshell is designed as an organically shaped wood cabin that focuses on building a connection with nature. Located in a peaceful setting, the structure provides space for meditation and self-reflection. The aim is to create an environment that encourages users to remain present, free from the distractions of daily life.

Materiality

Material choice is an important factor in the design of The Nutshell. The cabin features 9mm exterior plywood and 21mm plywood used as a wind barrier, offering a sturdy and insulated exterior. The design also incorporates 200mm insulation for enhanced thermal performance. The combination of oriented strand board and a wooden floor adds to the stability of the cabin while maintaining an inviting atmosphere.

Spatial Configuration

An important feature of the cabin is its layout, including large curved windows that connect the interior with the outside landscape. These windows are positioned to maximize the intake of natural light, creating airy and bright spaces for contemplation. The flow of the design ensures that users can enjoy the outside tranquility while being comfortably sheltered inside.

Thermal Adaptability

The Nutshell is designed to adjust to various climate conditions, making it suitable for use throughout the year. A curved skylight at the top of the cabin allows additional light and ventilation, helping to regulate temperature. This thoughtful design element promotes comfort in the cabin, making it a welcoming retreat regardless of the weather outside.

The detailing of The Nutshell is defined by its fluid forms and clean lines. Each design choice is made to create a harmonious blend of function and simplicity. The overall atmosphere encourages deeper thinking and mindfulness, inviting users to enjoy their surroundings in a focused way.

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

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

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
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 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 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
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 #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
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
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 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