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Embracing Serenity with Tongue and Groove Wood Siding and Bi-Folding Efficiency

Author:
Terrence Etienne
Embracing Serenity with Tongue and Groove Wood Siding and Bi-Folding Efficiency
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With its tongue and groove wood siding and clever bi-folding elements, the cabin creates an adaptable space for meditation and the processing of flower essences, fostering a deep connection to both nature and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a square within a square layout, enhancing spatial balance.
02
Operable aluminium windows allow for natural ventilation and light control.
03
A concealed folding worktable maintains an uncluttered meditation space.
04
Tongue and groove wood siding creates a warm, inviting aesthetic.
05
Bi-folding doors support functional versatility while preserving tranquility.

The Meditation Cabin serves as a calm space for meditation and the processing of flower essences. Located in a quiet environment, the cabin features a distinctive design built around the idea of a square within a square. This layout creates a clear relationship between the building and its purpose, promoting reflection and mindfulness through its simple and functional design.

Geometric Form and Symbolism

The design revolves around the square shape, which brings stability and balance. The larger square outlines the entire building, while the smaller square defines the core space for meditation. This geometric choice is not just decorative; it connects to the four stages of life—birth, childhood, adulthood, and death—and the four main elements: earth, water, fire, and air. This thoughtful design invites users to ponder their links to nature and their own life journeys.

Materiality and Aesthetics

Materials play a significant role in the Meditation Cabin, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The structure is framed with wood, giving it a comforting and familiar look that blends with its surroundings. The exterior and interior are clad in tongue and groove wood siding, adding a rustic finish. The roof is made of standing seam metal, ensuring durability against weather changes. Operable windows made of aluminium and glass let in ample natural light and fresh air, enhancing the overall experience of the space.

Functional Versatility

The cabin's layout emphasizes flexibility, allowing it to shift from meditation space to work area as needed. A concealed folding worktable is built into the design for processing flower essences. When not in use, this table can be hidden within a wall cavity, keeping the area open and focused on meditation. Bi-folding doors further support this versatility by obscuring the worktable and maintaining a serene environment.

Natural Light and Connection to Environment

Natural light is carefully incorporated into the cabin, creating a lively atmosphere. Large operable windows are positioned to capture daylight throughout the day, enriching the meditation experience and connecting the indoors with the outdoor landscape. This design choice maintains an intimate relationship between the user and the environment, inviting nature into the space.

The Meditation Cabin provides a balanced approach between design, function, and nature. Details like the tongue and groove wood siding add texture and warmth, creating an inviting presence that aligns well with its peaceful 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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