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Floating Stone Elements in a Circular Meditation Retreat

Author:
Gene Miao
Floating Stone Elements in a Circular Meditation Retreat
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Suspended stone elements create a unique visual experience in a circular retreat that serves as a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended stones create a floating visual effect, enhancing the sense of lightness.
02
Circular shape promotes fluid movement and a unified space for meditation.
03
Locally sourced timber complements the rough exterior stone walls.
04
A circular glass skylight offers dynamic views of the sky and natural light.
05
Movable altar designed for processing flower essences adds functionality.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin, also known as the Floating-Stone House, serves as a peaceful retreat aimed at meditation and reflection. It is set in a tranquil natural environment that enhances the experience of mindfulness. The design focuses on creating a close relationship between the building and its surroundings. The shape of the cabin is circular, promoting a sense of calm and unity.

Concept and Form

The overall design of the cabin revolves around its circular shape, which allows for easy movement within the space. When approaching, visitors first see a sturdy wall made of stone and mortar, resembling traditional building techniques. As one walks around the cabin, openings gradually show glass windows, welcoming light into the interior and creating a connection between the outside landscape and indoor environment.

Structure and Functionality

Within the cabin, locally sourced timber is used to complement the external stone. The solid stone base contains important features such as a toilet, a fireplace, and a spiral staircase that leads to an upper viewing platform. This thoughtful arrangement of elements ensures comfort and practicality while still allowing for moments of solitude and concentration.

Floating Stone Elements

Important to the design are the suspended stones that create the visual impression of floating. Each stone is held in place by stainless-steel threaded rods, which are drilled through the stones to provide support. This method allows light to shine through while offering views of the natural surroundings. The visual interplay between the stones and light enhances the sensory experience of the cabin.

Light and Ambiance

The design includes a layer of curved glass positioned behind the suspended stones. This serves to protect the interior from rain and wind but still lets in plenty of natural light. A circular glass skylight situated above brings dynamic views of the sky and encourages interaction with the outside world. This feature deepens the overall experience of being in the space, inviting occupants to engage more fully with the environment around them.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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