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Cylindrical Cabin with Pinewood Walls and Ambient Sound Integration

Authors:
Heidy Laurentia, Joshua Theo, Marcell Cruxivisyo
Cylindrical Cabin with Pinewood Walls and Ambient Sound Integration
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The cylindrical form, constructed with pinewood walls and designed to optimize sound reflection, creates a tranquil environment dedicated to meditation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical shape enhances sound reflection.
02
Smaller windows channel ambient sound into the meditation area.
03
Natural insulation reduces noise distractions effectively.
04
Zigzag ceiling design improves acoustic properties.
05
Integration of outdoor sounds promotes mindfulness practice.

The design is set in a peaceful natural landscape, focusing on creating a space for meditation and reflection. The concept revolves around integrating sound with the environment, drawing on elements like the rustling of leaves and the gentle sounds of wind chimes. The goal is to cultivate an atmosphere that enhances personal introspection and connection to nature.

Acoustic Design

A key feature of the design is its attention to acoustic elements. The cabin is shaped like a cylinder to improve sound reflection, enriching the auditory experience within. Natural sounds from the surroundings are purposely directed into the meditation area, creating a soothing backdrop. Smaller windows act as channels for these sounds, while larger glass surfaces allow daylight to fill the space and encourage air flow, thereby supporting the meditative process.

Material Selection

Pinewood forms the exterior walls of the cabin, fostering a connection to the environment. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and aligns with the overall vision of natural living. Inside, the floor combines concrete with a wooden coating, offering a warm and inviting texture that enhances comfort and accessibility.

Spatial Organization

The layout is carefully organized to guide individuals toward the meditation room while enhancing sound quality. Interior walls not only separate spaces but also serve as sound guides, enriching the overall atmosphere. A slanted roof contributes to variations in height, which supports both the building’s functionality and its acoustic properties.

Meditation Room Features

Inside the meditation room, sound insulation techniques create a calming environment. The zigzag ceiling is designed to absorb and reflect sound effectively, ensuring that only the desired sounds resonate within. An access opening allows for the entry of sound while reducing any unwanted reflections, maintaining a serene acoustic setting that supports the room's purpose.

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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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