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Natural Wood Serenity with Thermal Insulation for Mindful Reflection

Author:
Ricardo Villaseñor Torres
Natural Wood Serenity with Thermal Insulation for Mindful Reflection
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Constructed from durable hardwood and designed with thermal insulation, the cabin offers a harmonious environment for meditation and reflection amidst the natural landscape of Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with hardwood, enhancing durability and natural aesthetics.
02
Features thermal insulation to maintain comfortable internal temperatures year-round.
03
Designed to optimize natural light and views, promoting a connection with the landscape.
04
Incorporates a layout that supports both individual and communal meditation practices.
05
Located in Letoia, integrating seamlessly into coastal, lake, and wood surroundings.

The Tējas Filiāle Meditation Cabin is located in a Landscape Intervention Zone in Letoia, Latvia. It represents a connection to nature through its design, embodying the idea of a "Branch of Tea." This cabin serves as a place for meditation and reflection, blending the indoor experience with the calming presence of surrounding natural features like the beach, lake, and woods.

Conceptual Framework

The design focuses on creating a peaceful atmosphere. It features an open layout that allows for fluid movement between different areas. This organization encourages both individual meditation and group gatherings. By closely tying the spaces to the natural surroundings, the design enhances the overall experience for users, inviting them to engage with nature in a meaningful way.

Spatial Dynamics

The architectural plan includes various sections and elevations that optimize views of the landscape. These elements have been carefully arranged to ensure that the cabin responds to the site's topography. This thoughtful placement creates special spots for quiet moments while also offering expansive views that draw in the beauty of the outdoors. Such versatility is important in a space dedicated to meditation, allowing occupants to feel both connected and at ease.

Material Selection

Materials chosen for the cabin include hardwood, exterior hardwood, and layers of insulation, such as plastic insulation and thermal insulation. Each of these materials is selected for its durability and suitability for the environment. The hardwoods contribute warmth to the interior, while the insulation ensures energy efficiency, keeping the cabin comfortable throughout the year.

Design Detail

Large windows are a prominent feature of the cabin's design. They invite ample natural light and frame views of the landscape, strengthening the bond between inside and outside. This thoughtful detail creates an environment of openness and calmness essential for meditation and reflection. The cabin’s design shows that the architecture is not just about the structure but also about the experiences it fosters in nature.

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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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Competition organisers

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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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