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Elevated Stone Structures Embracing Nature with Glass Facades and Native Vegetation

Authors:
Sean Abar, Shamim Khosravi-vamakani
Elevated Stone Structures Embracing Nature with Glass Facades and Native Vegetation
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Elevated structures of local stone and extensive glass facades seamlessly blend with the natural landscape, creating a tranquil environment dedicated to meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structures allow for natural interaction with wildlife and sound.
02
Extensive use of glass façades enhances natural light and views.
03
Integration of native vegetation as part of the shading system.
04
Local stone construction connects the retreat to its historical context.
05
A blended communal and private space layout supports diverse retreat activities.

### Overview

Situated in Vidzeme, Latvia, the Stone Barn Meditation Camp, known as "Solitude," is designed to provide a serene retreat for individuals seeking an escape from urban life. The project is thoughtfully integrated into its natural surroundings, reflecting the local context and cultural heritage while offering a tranquil environment conducive to meditation and introspection. This architectural approach emphasizes a respectful dialogue between built form and nature.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The retreat features a comprehensive layout of interconnected structures that promotes both privacy and community interaction. Distinct zones cater to various functions, including private areas for meditation and communal spaces that invite social engagement. The original barn structure has been preserved to serve as a central gathering point, complemented by contemporary glazed facades that facilitate a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. Elevating the primary accommodation buildings enhances views of the landscape while allowing for natural ventilation and interaction with surrounding wildlife.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design prioritizes the use of local materials, including stone for structural walls and wood for interior finishes, contributing to the project's authenticity and connection to the site. Glass is extensively used to create transparent boundaries that connect spaces visually while allowing natural light to permeate interiors. Sustainability is a core consideration; features such as green roofs and natural shading systems made from climbing plants enhance energy efficiency and reduce the ecological footprint. This integrative approach maintains thermal comfort within the structures and ensures that the development operates harmoniously within its ecosystem.

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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.

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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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