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Lantern-Inspired Retreat with Recycled Timber and Translucent Membrane

Authors:
Yeong Yee Yeoh, Minjie Liang
Lantern-Inspired Retreat with Recycled Timber and Translucent Membrane
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Crafted with a timber grid and enveloped in a retractable translucent membrane, this meditation cabin serves as a lantern in the forest, providing a serene space for introspection and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted as a lantern, the cabin lights up at night, enhancing its connection to the surrounding forest.
02
The design features a layered structure that provides both openness and privacy for users.
03
A retractable translucent membrane allows for adjustable light levels and environmental connection.
04
The cabin incorporates spaces for both meditation and flower essence production, catering to holistic practices.
05
Recycled timber is utilized to minimize environmental impact while contributing to the cabin's warm aesthetic.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is located in the Earth Energies Sanctuary, a serene spot in New Zealand. Its primary purpose is to provide a space for individuals to meditate and connect with nature. The design embodies the concept of a lantern, guiding visitors with its soft light while enhancing their experience in a peaceful setting. This simple yet effective design promotes reflection and tranquility away from daily distractions.

Design Concept

The cabin is thoughtfully placed at the center of the sanctuary, surrounded by tall trees. This location allows it to act as a guiding light, drawing visitors in. The structure focuses on the relationship between the cabin and its natural surroundings. Its layered design emphasizes both openness and protection, making it a safe area for contemplation.

Spatial Organization

The cabin is arranged over two levels, each serving different functions. The ground floor is welcoming, designed for both people and wildlife. It gives a sense of comfort and shelter, encouraging relaxation. In contrast, the upper level is dedicated to meditation and the production of flower essences. This division of space enhances the ability to focus on spiritual practices while maintaining a connection with the environment.

Materiality and Structural Approach

The main construction material is recycled timber, chosen for its sustainability. This decision aligns with the cabin’s purpose of creating a low impact on the environment. The timber structure allows natural light to fill the spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The outer layer features a retractable translucent membrane. This membrane offers privacy and lets in light while keeping the feeling of being outside.

Unique Features

Several features encourage interaction with the surrounding nature. The timber grid acts as a framework for growing plants as well as a defining architectural element. This allows for the cultivation of flower essences within the cabin while enhancing the sensory experience for visitors. At night, this setup makes the cabin glow softly, creating a comforting presence in the dark landscape. It becomes a source of warmth, inviting people to step inside and pause for reflection.

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The Next House: USA
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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