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Natural Light and Wood Facade in a Sustainable Meditation Retreat

Author:
Emiliano Ruidiaz
Natural Light and Wood Facade in a Sustainable Meditation Retreat
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With its strategic use of OSB and a wood facade that enhances natural light, the retreat fosters a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes OSB for structural integrity and efficiency.
02
Features a wood facade that enhances thermal performance.
03
Incorporates solar technology for seasonal temperature control.
04
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed windows.
05
Designed to foster both solitude and community interaction.

"Refuge of Simple Life" is a project that emphasizes the relationship between meditation and nature, located in a tranquil setting that encourages reflection. The design focuses on the balance between connection and disconnection, creating spaces where people can escape from the demands of everyday life while also engaging deeply with their environment. The architecture responds thoughtfully to its surroundings, promoting a sense of peace.

Concept and Philosophy

The core idea centers around meditation as a way to experience both solitude and community. The design lays out spaces that allow for easy movement between quiet areas meant for personal reflection and sections designed for social interactions. This blend is vital to the experience, enabling a strong connection to nature and the self.

Materiality and Construction

Materials chosen for "Refuge of Simple Life" significantly influence both its function and appearance. Oriented strand board, or OSB, is used for its strength and light weight, providing a solid foundation. The wood facade not only brings warmth to the building's exterior but also helps with temperature control. Additionally, the use of moisture barriers and insulation maintains a comfortable indoor environment, while wiring and plasterboard offer modern conveniences without taking away from the architecture's overall character.

Environmental Responsiveness

Attention to seasonal changes characterizes the design, particularly through the use of solar energy. The building heats itself in winter and cools down in summer, showcasing an effective response to environmental conditions. This adaptability to the climate enhances user comfort and aligns with sustainable practices, highlighting a thoughtful integration of the structure with its natural setting.

Spatial Experience and Aesthetics

Images of the project reveal a close relationship between the building and the landscape. The design adopts a minimalist approach that promotes calmness and simplicity, emphasizing natural light and shadow patterns within the interior spaces. Windows are strategically placed to provide clear views of nature, making the outdoors a key part of the experience.

Open areas invite sunlight in, creating a welcoming atmosphere for meditation and introspection. Each space is designed to foster a sense of tranquility, making it easier for users to connect with themselves and their surroundings.

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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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