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Filtering Canopy with Wooden Panels for Immersive Meditation Retreat

Authors:
Jon Menoyo Escuza, Mérici García Lerín, Manuel Del Pozo Del Pozo
Filtering Canopy with Wooden Panels for Immersive Meditation Retreat
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The cabins utilize a filtering canopy structure and wooden panels to create immersive spaces for meditation and healing within a forested environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins feature a descending facade that transforms into an external meditation platform.
02
Filtering canopies allow controlled light and views while ensuring privacy.
03
Wooden panels are used throughout to enhance thermal insulation and connection to nature.
04
Each cabin is designed for flexible use, accommodating both individual and group activities.
05
Solar roofs provide energy efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint.

INTO THE WOOD presents a thoughtful response to the natural environment, designed specifically for meditation and healing in a peaceful forest setting. The cabins draw inspiration from the forms of trees, linking their roots, trunks, and branches to human anatomy. This connection encourages a deeper interaction between the occupants and their surroundings, creating a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the cabins is simple and functional, allowing for a strong relationship with the forest. Each structure stands on a foundational system that mirrors the stability of tree roots, anchoring the design to the earth. This arrangement promotes a fluid connection between the inhabitants and the landscape, creating a harmonious place to unwind.



Light and Environment

The cabins are designed to allow natural light to filter through, enhancing the serene atmosphere within. The upper sections of the structures act like canopies above, offering protection while also maintaining views of the forest. This thoughtful arrangement encourages occupants to engage with the landscape, fostering a sense of calm and privacy ideal for meditation.



Functional Design Features

Inside, each cabin offers flexible spaces that can be adjusted for various activities, including meditation and therapeutic treatments. The main access point unfolds upward, drawing attention to the natural surroundings. Practical elements such as shelves and ecological sinks are integrated to support the needs of users, keeping the space organized without disrupting the peaceful vibe.



Material Selection

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to environmental care. Wooden panels are used throughout, connecting the cabins to the forest. A solar roof promotes energy efficiency, while metallic gutters provide necessary support for the structures. Together, these materials create a unified design that minimizes the project's impact on its natural surroundings.



An interesting feature is the descending facade of each cabin, which transforms into a platform for meditation. This design invites users to experience the forest closely. It enhances their connection to nature, allowing for quiet contemplation amidst the trees.

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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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