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Elevated Canopy Pavilion Crafted from Marine Plywood and Steel

Author:
Kellen Thayer
Elevated Canopy Pavilion Crafted from Marine Plywood and Steel
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Crafted from marine plywood and elevated within a tree canopy, the pavilion serves as a dedicated space for meditation, enhancing the connection between users and their natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Made entirely of marine plywood, enhancing durability and weather resistance.
02
Elevated structure provides unique views from the tree canopy level.
03
Operable windows allow for natural ventilation and framed views of nature.
04
Includes two altars for essential oil processing, enriching the meditative experience.
05
Designed to foster individual contemplation while promoting community connection.

The meditation pavilion connects with the natural landscape, providing a quiet space designed for individual reflection and mindfulness. Inspired by the principles of the Brahmavihara—Lovingkindness, Compassion, Appreciative Joy, and Equanimity—the design creates not only a functional area for meditation but also captures the spirit of these ideals. Elevated above the ground, the pavilion allows users to engage with the environment, enhancing their experience of nature while promoting a sense of peace.

Structural Integrity

The pavilion features a framework made of steel posts and concrete piles, ensuring it remains sturdy while avoiding a heavy appearance. Galvanized steel cross bracing reinforces the structure, allowing for a slender profile that blends into its surroundings. This approach maintains the pavilion's elegance without obstructing the views of nearby trees.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the design includes four meditation terminals, each carefully arranged to support personal contemplation. There are also two altars for processing and diffusing essential oils, adding sensory elements to the meditative experience. The layout encourages users to engage individually while being part of a broader, communal atmosphere, allowing for both solitude and connection with others.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability. Marine-grade plywood serves both the exterior and interior finishes, offering durability against weather while ensuring visual consistency. Three coats of water-based polyurethane protect the surfaces and minimize harm to the environment. This careful selection of materials emphasizes the intention behind the pavilion, aiming for both longevity and environmental responsibility.

Natural Integration

The design includes operable windows on every facade, framing the surrounding nature and inviting fresh air. This not only enhances comfort but also allows users to feel as though they are part of the tree canopy. By connecting the interior space with the landscape outside, the pavilion reinforces its purpose as a setting for meditation and quiet reflection.

Within the pavilion, a balance exists between simplicity and purpose. It offers a tranquil space for contemplation, deeply honoring the principles that inspired its creation while allowing individuals to connect with the world around them.

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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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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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