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Meditative Spaces Framed by Natural Light and Carob Trees

Authors:
Ruoxin Tan, Jingzhi He, Jiayu Lu
Meditative Spaces Framed by Natural Light and Carob Trees
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Framed by carob trees and abundant natural light, the design offers a tranquil sanctuary that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces for relaxation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Carob trees are integrated into the landscape, enhancing the connection to nature.
02
Natural light is prioritized through large windows, creating bright and inviting interiors.
03
The layout distinguishes between personal and communal spaces, facilitating social interaction.
04
Courtyard gardens provide a unique outdoor experience, extending living areas into nature.
05
A swimming pool is designed to blend with the surrounding environment, promoting relaxation.

The design situated on the island of Antiparos in Greece explores themes of home and memory, influenced by historical narratives from the 1940-1941 war and events that followed. It combines private and communal spaces to create a sanctuary that meets the emotional and physical needs of its users. The overall concept emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape, resulting in an inviting and thoughtful environment.

Concept and Layout

An open layout encourages free movement and connects the interior to the outdoors. Careful spatial planning distinguishes private areas from communal ones, promoting both closeness and social interaction. This arrangement harnesses natural light effectively, filling the spaces with brightness and warmth, which contributes to a sense of well-being.

Programmatic Elements

Key components of the design include a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, courtyard gardens, and a swimming pool. Together, these elements define the concept of home as a place for refuge. The integration of gardens and the pool with the living areas creates a flow that merges indoors and outdoors. This connection enhances the occupants’ experience of nature.

Emotional and Meditative Qualities

The interplay of light and shadow has been thoughtfully designed to create a calm, meditative atmosphere. These features help create spaces that encourage relaxation and reflection. The design aims to provide safety and comfort, making it a suitable retreat for those seeking peace during challenging times.

Attention to Natural Landscape

The project places importance on the local landscape, incorporating elements like carob trees and upright palms. This connection strengthens the relationship between the building and its environment, reflecting respect for the natural surroundings and the cultural history of the area.

Large windows invite light to enter, helping to create a dynamic atmosphere within the interior. The use of natural light enhances the sensory experience, making the spaces feel alive and welcoming.

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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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