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Curved Wooden Sanctuary with Translucent Glazing for Meditative Retreat

Authors:
Eduardo Acevedo, Irina Salas
Curved Wooden Sanctuary with Translucent Glazing for Meditative Retreat
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A curved wooden wall creates an intimate meditation space illuminated by natural light filtering through expansive glazing, offering a tranquil retreat designed for reflection and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved wooden wall enhances intimacy in the meditation area.
02
Expansive glazing blurs boundaries between interior and nature.
03
Treated wood exterior promotes durability against weather elements.
04
Interior spaces use birch veneer plywood for a calming effect.
05
Design creates distinct zones for both solitude and connection.

The Duality Cabin introduces a modern approach that embraces the idea of duality, focusing on balance between different elements in its design. Located in a natural setting, the cabin functions as a space for meditation and self-reflection. The overall design connects deeply with the surrounding landscape, inviting residents to appreciate the simplicity of the environment while considering the dual aspects of life.

Design Concept

Incorporating the yin-yang philosophy, the design delves into the relationship between light and darkness, as well as between active and passive states. This concept shapes the architectural elements, offering visitors a chance to explore various dimensions of their experience. The cabin presents a clear and straightforward geometry, avoiding unnecessary details, which emphasizes its purpose and functionality.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the cabin promotes natural movement between open and enclosed areas. A curved wall serves as a welcoming entrance, guiding visitors into the main room while setting the tone for their experience. The design creates distinct zones that facilitate both interaction and solitude. The extensive glass wall allows natural light to filter into the space, effectively merging the indoor environment with the outdoors and fostering a sense of connection with nature.

Materiality

Materials are thoughtfully chosen to complement the cabin’s aesthetic and usability. The exterior is finished with treated wood, which enhances durability and establishes a relational bond with the environment. Inside, birch veneer plywood is used to create a warm and calming atmosphere. The materials work together to support the design's focus on minimalism and peace, contributing to the cabin’s overall meditative quality.

Aesthetic Detail

Key design features highlight the exploration of duality throughout the cabin. The curved wooden wall creates an intimate meditation space, contrasting with the transparent glass wall. This contrast between solid and fragile elements creates an engaging dialogue, inviting occupants to experience both the enclosure and openness of the space. Light plays an important role here, as it filters through the glass, casting gentle shadows and enhancing the natural textures of the wood, deepening the sensory experience within the cabin.

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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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