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Diamond-Shaped Glass and Plywood Retreat in the Forest

Authors:
Yuxin Wang, Danni Lyu
Diamond-Shaped Glass and Plywood Retreat in the Forest
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Crafted with a diamond-shaped glass facade and a plywood structure, this cabin integrates with its forest environment to provide a focused sanctuary for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Diamond-shaped glass windows optimize light while preserving privacy.
02
The structure is elevated, allowing for heating systems beneath.
03
Plywood is used for lightweight, durable construction.
04
An altar for flower essences enhances the meditative experience.
05
Staggered window placements promote natural ventilation.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is located in a tranquil forest setting, designed to serve as a place for reflection and mindfulness. The building encourages visitors to take a break from their busy lives and embrace the peace of nature. Its architecture reflects natural shapes and materials, allowing the cabin to fit well within the landscape.

Design Concept

The design focuses on foot access, which means visitors must walk to reach the cabin. This design choice fosters a deeper connection to the surrounding forest. Inspired by organic forms, the cabin aims to create a calming atmosphere. It is a space meant for meditation and personal reflection, providing an escape from everyday distractions.

Structural Elements

The building features a diamond-shaped wooden frame that supports its structure while also adding to its visual appeal. This frame enhances the play of light and shadow throughout the day, creating a dynamic interior. The facade combines wood panels and diamond-shaped glass. This combination allows for beautiful views while maintaining privacy for users.

Interior Layout

Inside, the main meditation area is positioned on the ground floor. There is also a small altar for flower essences located on the northeast side. The layout includes a mezzanine space for relaxation, making it easy for users to find their preferred spots for quiet time. This design encourages a natural flow between the different areas.

Natural Integration

Several outdoor platforms connect to the cabin, promoting an intimate relationship with the forest. These spaces invite users to step outside and engage with nature, enhancing the meditative experience. The building is elevated to accommodate heating systems beneath. This thoughtful design choice ensures comfort in different weather conditions, while also offering clear views of the surrounding nature.

Plywood is the primary material used in construction, chosen for its light weight and durability. It allows for efficient prefabrication, with all components designed to fit together seamlessly. Each element in the cabin contributes to an inviting space for contemplation, encouraging visitors to find peace in the beauty of their natural surroundings.

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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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