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Elevated Cabins Featuring Natural Wood and Cork Insulation for Mindful Retreats

Authors:
Katarína Kandráčová, Adam Huleja
Elevated Cabins Featuring Natural Wood and Cork Insulation for Mindful Retreats

Project in-detail

Elevated above the forest floor, the cabins utilize natural wood, glass walls, and cork insulation to create a serene environment designed for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structures reduce ground impact and promote natural water drainage.
02
Integration of rainwater harvesting systems enhances sustainability and resource management.
03
Wooden beams provide structural support while maintaining an open, airy feel.
04
Glass walls create seamless transitions between interior spaces and the surrounding environment.
05
Cork insulation contributes to energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.

The Vale de Muses Meditation Cabins project is an architectural endeavor located in a tranquil region of Portugal, designed to provide spaces for meditation and self-reflection. The concept integrates natural elements and eco-friendly practices, emphasizing a minimalistic approach to construction. The architectural design harmonizes with the surrounding environment, promoting tranquility and mindfulness through deliberate spatial organization.

The cabins feature an elongated, simple form with an open-plan layout that is optimized for versatility. Each unit includes a central meditation space, kitchenette, and private bathroom facilities. Wooden beams support the elevated structure, minimizing soil disturbance while allowing for unobstructed views of the surrounding forest. The use of glass walls enhances this interaction with the natural world, creating an immersive experience for users.

The project represents a commitment to sustainability and mindfulness. Emphasizing simplicity and the intrinsic qualities of materials, the design fosters a connection to nature and encourages personal and communal reflection. It embodies the principles of Zen, drawing inspiration from minimalism and the philosophy of achieving clarity through simplicity.

Material selection plays a critical role in this architectural design. The structure utilizes various types of wood for beams and cladding, symbolizing a connection to the forests from which they came. Additionally, glass is integrated to create transparency and continuity between interior and exterior environments. Metal components reinforce structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight profile. Incorporating cork for insulation further enhances energy efficiency. The architectural solutions not only promote sustainability but also ensure that the cabins blend seamlessly with their natural setting.

The unique approach in the Vale de Muses project lies in its emphasis on adaptive use of space. Each cabin is designed to accommodate various activities, allowing occupants to engage in yoga or meditation as needed. The elevated placement of the structure minimizes environmental impact, affirming the project's commitment to ecological preservation. Furthermore, the integration of rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies the sustainable design principles that guide the project. These features support self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship.

In summary, the Vale de Muses Meditation Cabins project embodies architectural principles that prioritize functionality, sustainability, and user experience. Its thoughtful design and material choices provide a serene setting for meditation, aligning with a wider ethos of conscious living. For a comprehensive understanding of the project’s architectural plans, sections, and designs, please explore the presentation for more detailed insights.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

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 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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