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Natural Wood and One-Way Glass Cabin Emphasizing Mindful Engagement with Surroundings

Authors:
Anissa Dipa, Carla Aurellia, Chelsea Gracelyn
Natural Wood and One-Way Glass Cabin Emphasizing Mindful Engagement with Surroundings
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The combination of one-way glass and natural wood in a cabin by a lake creates a tranquil space designed for meditation and mindfulness, fostering a deep connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates one-way glass for privacy while maintaining views of the lake.
02
A parametric design is used for the wooden elements, enhancing visual interest and function.
03
The open first-floor layout promotes a direct connection with the surrounding nature.
04
Wood and steel are exclusively used in construction, ensuring a durable yet natural aesthetic.
05
Layered wooden components on the upper floor create depth and adaptability in the space.

The Polyxible Cabin is a meditation retreat located by a calm lake, designed to enhance the experience of mindfulness and relaxation. The setting captures the tranquil qualities of nature, supporting the purpose of the space. The design concept aims to change the perception of meditation, transforming it from a routine task into an engaging journey. By merging human activity with the environment, the cabin offers a flexible space that meets the varied needs of its users.

Spatial Organization

The cabin showcases an open layout on the first floor that strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large windows offer unobstructed views of the lake and allow light to fill the interior. This layout encourages users to immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings, reinforcing the goal of promoting a meditative atmosphere.

Materials and Structure

The construction of the cabin primarily uses wood and a steel frame, chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The wooden elements follow a parametric design, with pieces arranged in a thoughtful manner to create an engaging visual effect. This design approach enhances both the appearance and functionality of the space, allowing for various meditation practices.

Design Features

A notable feature of the cabin is the use of one-way glass on the second floor. This glass provides privacy while still enabling views of the lake, maintaining a connection to the natural world. The transparency of this section invites light into the space, creating an open feel. Additionally, the wooden layers on the upper level are placed at different heights, adding depth and complexity to the design while allowing the space to adapt to different uses.

These design elements work together to respond to the growing interest in meditation and wellness. The combination of wood, light, and views creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages engagement with nature, supporting a renewed focus on meditation within the context of modern living.

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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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