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Curved Wooden Walls and Prefabricated Modules in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Hugo Alves Rebelo, André Alves Vendeira
Curved Wooden Walls and Prefabricated Modules in a Sustainable Retreat
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The curved wooden walls and prefabricated modules create a sustainable retreat that fosters privacy and contemplation amid the natural landscape, designed specifically for meditation and therapy.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved wooden walls enhance the sense of continuity and connection within the retreat.
02
Each cabin is designed as a prefabricated module for efficient construction and adaptability.
03
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings for cross-ventilation.
04
A rainwater collection system supports the sustainable irrigation of surrounding vegetation.
05
Dedicated outdoor platforms integrate into the landscape for yoga and meditation activities.

"A Curva do Moses" is set in a sloped landscape filled with rich vegetation and scattered buildings. The focus of the design is to create a retreat that supports activities such as meditation and therapy. The cabins are thoughtfully arranged to provide privacy while maintaining a strong connection to the natural surroundings. Through curving forms and strategic placement, the design integrates with the site’s topography, enhancing both functionality and user experience.

Key Features

The design includes a podium that stabilizes the slope, making it possible to create usable space where the landscape might have been challenging. This approach does not harm the existing vegetation, allowing nature to coexist with the structures. Each cabin is placed so that people can enjoy private moments while also being part of a larger community space.

Sustainability and Functionality

Sustainability plays an important role in this retreat. The project features a rainwater collection system that supports irrigation for surrounding plants. Each cabin is designed to generate its own energy with solar solutions that blend into the overall design. Careful planning provides private areas for storage and handwashing, plus optional toilet facilities to ensure comfort for users.

Spatial Dynamics

Natural ventilation is prioritized with openings placed thoughtfully to enhance airflow throughout the interiors. Large windows allow ample light into the cabins and create connections to outdoor spaces. The outdoor platforms for yoga and other activities are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, inviting users to engage with nature directly.

Unique Design Elements

A curved wooden wall serves as a prominent feature that brings continuity to the site. It guides visitors along the pathways while creating private areas for reflection. The cabins are built as prefabricated units, which simplifies construction and allows for adaptability within the scenic valley. Each detail is crafted to support a calming atmosphere essential for meditation and therapy.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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