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Mud Walls and Vaulted Space in a Small Retreat for Introspection

Authors:
María José Zárate Tenorio, Verónica Adrian Del Muro
Mud Walls and Vaulted Space in a Small Retreat for Introspection
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The integration of vaulted spaces and natural mud walls creates a distinctive retreat designed for introspection and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Entry through a low circular door symbolizes the start of a personal journey.
02
Non-linear vaults enhance natural light and reflect the complexities of thought.
03
Elevated design mitigates flooding while maintaining a connection to the landscape.
04
Natural materials include mud walls constructed with a traditional Cobb technique.
05
Flexible openings allow users to adjust privacy and light according to their needs.

Inside Out Cabin is located in a peaceful natural setting, designed to be a retreat for personal reflection and a deeper connection with the outdoors. The concept revolves around guiding individuals through a meaningful experience within a straightforward square shape. This thoughtful arrangement invites users to engage in self-discovery while enjoying the surrounding environment.

Design Experience

The cabin features a low circular door at its entrance, symbolizing the beginning of an inward journey. Once inside, visitors experience a carefully thought-out layout that creates a sense of openness. The highest exit point represents personal growth achieved through meditation and reflection, marking the journey's completion.

Spatial Configuration

Non-linear vaults shape the interior of the cabin, reflecting the complexities of human thought and experience. These architectural elements are not just decorative; they also help distribute natural light throughout the space. This gentle lighting fosters a calm environment, making it suitable for quiet contemplation. The varying light patterns add character to each area, enhancing the connection between the cabin's interior and the natural world outside.

Material Considerations

Material choices play a crucial role in both aesthetics and sustainability. The cabin uses wood for the floors, doors, and windows, while mud walls are built using a Cobb construction method. This choice highlights a commitment to environmentally friendly practices while allowing the building to integrate well into its surroundings. Natural materials contribute to a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Adaptive Functionality

The design allows flexibility in how the space is used. Occupants can open or close doors and windows based on their needs for privacy or openness. This adaptability creates a soothing environment that balances seclusion with a strong connection to nature.

Inside Out Cabin offers a unique combination of materials and light that enhances the feeling of tranquility. Each detail is carefully integrated, inviting users to explore their thoughts and the world beyond the walls.

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

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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?

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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