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Hexagonal Retreat Emphasizing Natural Brown Tones in a Forest Environment

Authors:
Sante Gornes, Mario Cantu, Karina Lozano, Gabriel Gornes
Hexagonal Retreat Emphasizing Natural Brown Tones in a Forest Environment
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The hexagonal structure, inspired by the form of a pinecone, harmonizes with natural brown tones and encourages forest bathing, serving as a peaceful retreat for meditation and therapy.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the shape of a pinecone for ecological integration.
02
Hexagonal layout enhances energy capture and spatial flow.
03
Meditation areas designed to promote tranquility and reflection.
04
Pathways designed for forest bathing to enrich mindfulness practices.
05
Natural light features create dynamic interior atmospheres throughout the day.

The Pinecone Cabin project is located in the scenic Vale de Moses, surrounded by mountains, green valleys, and flowing rivers. It is designed to foster a connection between people and nature, focusing on wellbeing and personal growth. Drawing from the natural form of a pinecone, the design aims to blend into the environment, creating a space that encourages reflection and healing.

Design Concept
The concept centers around the pinecone, which symbolizes growth and vitality. The form of the cabin mirrors the characteristics of the pinecone, while the overall geometry is defined by overlapping triangles. This arrangement creates a six-point star, which connects to the Flower of Life, representing the interconnectedness found in nature. The base of the cabin takes on a hexagonal shape, reflecting the structures seen in crystals, emphasizing energy capture that plays a role in the site’s ecological context.

Spatial Organization
Inside, the layout is carefully designed to support mental clarity and tranquility. Spaces specifically for meditation and therapy are included, encouraging deeper introspection and emotional healing. Each area is arranged to enhance a sense of peace, which aligns with the intention to promote self-discovery in a calm setting. Natural light plays a vital role here, with a strategically placed top window allowing sunlight to illuminate the space, creating a warm atmosphere that shifts throughout the day.

Nature Integration
The pathways surrounding the cabins are created for "forest bathing," inviting individuals to engage with nature fully. These green paths are meant to refresh the mind and body, enhancing the experience for those involved in therapeutic practices. The design of these routes reflects a deep understanding of how physical spaces can influence well-being, enriching the overall experience of being in the environment.

The Pinecone Cabin exemplifies a thoughtful approach to its natural surroundings, with spaces dedicated to personal growth and reflection. It uses geometric forms and natural light to create a sense of connection with the landscape. Intricate patterns and light play within the interior further enhance the experience, making the cabin a quiet retreat where people can explore their thoughts and feelings.

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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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