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Floating Timber Canopy for Mindful Reflection

Author:
Darran Brennan
Floating Timber Canopy for Mindful Reflection
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A floating roof supports a sanctuary of circular timber columns, creating a sunken space for mindfulness and reflection amid the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating roof design enhances natural light and protects the meditation area from the elements.
02
Sunken layout fosters a sense of intimacy and connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Circular timber columns create a visual "forest," emphasizing organic forms within the structure.
04
Reflective materials on the parapet mirror the environment, blurring boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
05
The altar design integrates flower essence processing into the meditative experience, enhancing sensory engagement.

"Haumanu" is a project focused on mindfulness and therapeutic practices, set in a peaceful natural environment. The design aims to create a direct connection between the built structure and its surroundings. Drawing on the Maori concept of therapy, the project emphasizes contemplation and personal renewal within its architectural framework.

Floating Roof Structure
A notable feature of "Haumanu" is its floating roof, which appears to hover above the meditation space. This design protects users from rain and harsh sunlight while creating a sheltered area for reflection. The elliptical shape of the roof allows sunlight to spill onto an altar beneath, enhancing the space's therapeutic purpose.

Sunken Design
The excavation of the site results in a sunken area that fosters a more intimate relationship with nature. This choice encourages a secluded atmosphere, ideal for meditation. The contrast between the elevated roof and the lowered ground enhances the experience, inviting users to connect deeply with their environment.

Timber Column Forest
The roof is supported by a series of circular timber columns, forming what resembles a man-made forest. These columns vary in size and placement, contributing to a dynamic environment. Alongside their structural role, they provide protection from the wind, allowing the meditation area to remain open and welcoming.

Reflective Parapet
A band of reflective material runs along the parapet, mirroring the surrounding landscape. This design element helps blur the boundaries between the structure and nature. It adds a layer of depth, promoting a sense of calm and connection to the setting.

Sunlight pours through circular openings above, casting gentle patterns on the ground. These shifting light effects enhance the space's meditative quality, grounding users in the rhythm of the natural world.

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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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