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Movable Platform and Bronze Accents in a Raised Mindfulness Retreat

Authors:
Kamila Szatanowska, Paulina Rogalska
Movable Platform and Bronze Accents in a Raised Mindfulness Retreat
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A round movable platform and bronze accents define a raised retreat designed for mindfulness practices, offering a tranquil connection to the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
A movable round platform adapts for meditation and creative activities.
02
Bronze accents highlight key architectural features throughout the structure.
03
The structure is elevated to enhance connectivity with the surrounding landscape.
04
Adjustable wooden blinds allow for privacy and control of natural light.
05
Functional zones are specifically designed for mindfulness practices and daily tasks.

The Temple of Mindfulness project is set in a tranquil landscape, designed as a place for reflection and connection with nature. Its main function is to support activities focused on mindfulness, such as meditation and yoga, while promoting a sense of peace through simplicity. The design centers on structured spaces that work in harmony with their natural surroundings, enhancing everyday experiences.

Spatial Dynamics

The layout includes a central body that is compact and raised above the ground. This elevation creates a sheltered environment that invites concentration and solitude. Surrounding the central structure is a terrace, which is linked by a footbridge. This arrangement allows users to access various natural settings like forests and meadows, encouraging a deeper interaction with the environment.

Functional Design

Inside the Temple of Mindfulness, spaces are organized into zones tailored for different activities. A round, movable platform at the center serves multiple purposes, allowing users to shift from meditation to creativity with ease. Functional areas, including a bathroom, a small kitchen equipped with a wood-burning stove, a wardrobe, and a dry toilet, are separated by adjustable wooden blinds. This design allows for flexibility and control over privacy and atmosphere.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light plays an important role in the overall experience of the space. A glazed roof allows daylight to fill the interior, promoting a sense of openness. This roof can be fully opened to the sky or covered with manually operated wooden shutters, giving users the choice to adjust light levels as they wish. A round, rotating window adds another layer to the design, offering views that encourage thoughtful engagement with the surroundings.

Material Choices

Materials chosen for this project are primarily sourced locally, aligning with the commitment to sustainability. Fired wood is used throughout the central structure, creating a warm, inviting environment. Bronze accents are incorporated to highlight specific architectural details, enriching the overall character of the design while retaining a simple elegance.

A significant design detail is the arrangement of ceiling beams, inspired by Eastern spiritual architecture. This choice reflects a focus on mindfulness and calm, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the interior.

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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?

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