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Mirrored Entry and Frosted Glass Create Harmony Above the Pond

Author:
Jeffrey Troutman
Mirrored Entry and Frosted Glass Create Harmony Above the Pond
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A mirrored entry reflects the surrounding landscape through frosted glass, creating a seamless connection with nature in a structure designed for meditation and mindful reflection above a tranquil pond.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored surfaces at the entrance enhance natural light and reflections.
02
Frosted glass panels create privacy while maintaining visibility to nature.
03
The cabin's design allows for dual functionality as a meditation space and pavilion.
04
Elevated position above the pond fosters a unique interaction with water.
05
Structural timber frame ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight appearance.

The design "śūnyatā" is situated near a peaceful pond, functioning as a meditative dwelling that captures the essence of emptiness. It is meant to encourage mindfulness and reflection, drawing the occupant into a deeper connection with nature. The overall composition of the structure conveys a sense of calmness, encouraging a spiritual interaction with the environment.

Site Approach

The journey to the cabin begins on a boardwalk that shifts the perspective of the visitor, focusing attention on the building ahead. This careful transition is designed to prepare users for the peacefulness found within. The layout extends over the pond, creating an immersive environment that allows the surrounding nature to be experienced without interruption.

Interior Experience

Flower essences are strategically placed at the entrance on a mirrored surface, which reflects light onto frosted glass panels inside. This thoughtful design enhances the interior experience, as the play of light and color shifts throughout the day. It creates a tranquil atmosphere, inviting quiet contemplation while blending with the natural elements.

Structural Versatility

Flexibility is a key aspect of the design, allowing the cabin to serve both as a meditation space and an open pavilion. This adaptability increases its usability for both individual practice and group gatherings. Elevated above the pond, the structure emphasizes its connection to water and nature, creating a fluid interaction between the interior and the exterior.

Material and Aesthetic

Materials were chosen to meet both functional and aesthetic needs. Wooden siding boards are coated with a weather-resistant white wash, while a structural select timber frame provides strength. The foundation is made of concrete masonry units, ensuring stability. Galvanized steel flashing gutters help manage water drainage, and AC grade plywood is used for interior surfaces, giving a polished look.

An overhang enhances the roofline, providing visual interest while offering protection from the elements. The combination of open and enclosed spaces allows natural light to filter in, creating a calm and inviting environment suited for meditation and reflection. The design encourages users to engage deeply with their surroundings, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility.

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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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