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Meditation Pyramid Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Natural Water Filtration System

Authors:
Alisha Gupta, Mohit Bhoria, Naina Krishan
Meditation Pyramid Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Natural Water Filtration System
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A meditation pyramid constructed from cross-laminated timber integrates a natural water filtration system and curved pathways to create a serene therapeutic environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Meditation pyramid design enhances spatial acoustics for improved mindfulness.
02
Water filtration system utilizes collected rainwater for sustainable use.
03
Curved pathways integrate seamlessly with the natural topography of the site.
04
Flexible layouts accommodate diverse therapeutic programs and activities.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide durability while enhancing aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview

The design project is located in a geographical area chosen for its natural landscape, with an emphasis on creating an environment that supports well-being. The conceptual framework is rooted in phenomenology, focusing on the engagement of the five senses to facilitate healing and reduce stress. The intention is to establish a therapeutic environment that harmonizes architecture with its natural context.

### Spatial Strategy and Zoning

The site organization is thoughtfully structured to enhance functionality and adhere to themes of wellness and treatment. Key components of the layout include a welcoming entrance portal that guides visitors into the therapeutic space, a Diet and Nutrition Center dedicated to promoting healthy living through culinary activities, and accommodation for staff alongside private residences that encourage relaxation and connection with the landscape. Dedicated areas such as the Meditation Pyramid and Sacred Sites foster introspection and spiritual engagement. The use of natural pathways, characterized by curved lines, reflects an organic flow of movement that aligns with the site's topography.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a diverse range of materials selected for their functional and aesthetic properties. Timber provides warmth and creates a natural bond with the surroundings, while glass facilitates natural light, enhancing visual connections between interior and exterior spaces. Stone elements resonate with the local geology, reinforcing contextual relevance, and steel is utilized for structural support, maintaining aesthetic integrity. The design includes a Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) approach, optimizing solar energy through strategic orientation and passive solar heating techniques. An artificial pond collects rainwater, which is processed through a three-tiered filtration system for culinary use, embodying resource conservation and sustainability practices.

Incorporating outdoor spaces is crucial for enhancing the user experience and fostering a stronger connection to nature, essential for mental health. These design choices collectively promote a holistic architectural approach that intertwines physical space with psychological and emotional well-being.

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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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