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Gabion Wall Retreat Enhanced by Thermal Mass and Natural Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Stephan Karetnik, Mckenna Steltzner, Latasha Shelton
Gabion Wall Retreat Enhanced by Thermal Mass and Natural Rainwater Harvesting
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A growing gabion wall of locally sourced stones and a moss-engineered roof for rainwater harvesting define a minimalist cabin designed for solitary meditation in the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
A growing gabion wall allows users to participate in the cabin's evolution by adding local stones.
02
The thermal mass stone floor and walls regulate indoor temperatures effectively.
03
A moss-engineered roof serves as a natural rainwater collection and filtration system.
04
Frameless operable glass panels enhance the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
05
The cabin's design accommodates a single occupant for an immersive meditation experience.

The mediation cabin in Latvia serves as a peaceful retreat designed for self-reflection and a deeper connection with nature. Located within a forested area, the cabin functions as a solitary space where individuals can find tranquility and enhance their mindfulness. The design emphasizes simplicity and calmness, creating an environment that allows users to engage with the natural surroundings effectively.

Architectural Approach

The approach to the cabin's design focuses on passive strategies to maintain comfort. Its orientation plays a crucial role, as it minimizes summer heat gain through effective solar shading. The use of thermal mass stone in the floor and walls helps regulate the indoor temperature by storing heat during colder periods.

Material Selection

Pre-engineered aluminum sections are used for both the roof and floor. This choice ensures that the structure is durable and can be assembled quickly. The selection of materials highlights modern construction techniques that emphasize efficiency while maintaining a sense of harmony within the design.

Interactive Elements

An important aspect of the cabin is the gabion wall, made from stones sourced locally. This feature encourages users to participate in shaping the structure over time, creating a stronger bond between the occupants and the surrounding environment. The thermal qualities of the gabion wall further improve the cabin's energy efficiency, making it a thoughtful design choice.

Connection to Nature

Rainwater harvesting is incorporated into the design, with a moss-engineered roof system that naturally filters water. This system supports the basic needs of a single occupant while also promoting sustainable practices. Frameless operable glass panels serve to blend the interior with the outside environment, allowing for ventilation and enhancing the experience of being in nature.

The cabin is characterized by large glass panels that frame the views of the forest, inviting an abundance of natural light into the space. This design detail encourages users to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings while enjoying the simple, reflective time within the cabin itself.

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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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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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