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Elevated Timber Retreat with Aromatic Essential Oil Flow

Authors:
Gregory Wang, Jack Walker
Elevated Timber Retreat with Aromatic Essential Oil Flow
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Constructed from laminated veneer lumber and clad in durable Abodo Vulcan, the cabin features a double-height space that enhances the aromatic flow of essential oils, providing a serene retreat for meditation and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with laminated veneer lumber to enhance structural efficiency.
02
Abodo Vulcan exterior cladding offers durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Double-height design promotes natural light and aroma movement.
04
Integrated essential oils processing area for immersive experiences.
05
Insulated with biodegradable Terra Lana wool for improved indoor air quality.

Kiwi Meditation Cabins is located in the Earth Energies Eco Sanctuary Precinct in Mangatarata, Aotearoa, New Zealand. The cabins serve as spaces for meditation and personal reflection, designed to fit comfortably within the forest landscape. The overall design concept prioritizes peace and connection to the natural environment, creating a setting conducive to relaxation for all visitors.

Material Selection and Construction
The structure features laminated veneer lumber (LVL) sourced from New Zealand, providing both strength and visual appeal. For the exterior, Abodo Vulcan, a thermally modified pinus radiata timber, has been chosen for its long-lasting qualities. This emphasis on wood takes into account both the building’s structural needs and its environmental impact, helping to absorb carbon as part of its overall footprint.

Spatial Organization
An open and inviting environment is created by elevating the roof's top edge, which allows ample natural light to enter. This design choice enhances the connection between the occupants and the surrounding forest. The inclusion of a double-height space promotes the movement of essential oil aromas throughout the cabin, which is important for those practicing meditation and seeking relaxation.

Energy Performance
Energy efficiency plays a significant role in the design. Low-e coated, triple-glazed windows are installed to improve thermal performance, ensuring the spaces remain comfortable across seasons. These windows allow for passive solar heat, making the cabin inviting while reducing glare and maintaining a serene atmosphere for its users.

Insulation and Sustainability
The project utilizes Terra Lana NZ wool insulation, known for being biodegradable and safe for indoor air quality. This helps manage moisture and contributes to a healthy environment, aligned with the intention of creating a sustainable retreat. The choice of insulation reflects a commitment to both ecological responsibility and user comfort.

Large operable openings in the cabin invite fresh air into the space, fostering a direct relationship with the surrounding woods. This design encourages a sense of connection with nature and provides an environment that promotes contemplation and mindfulness.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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