Get inspired!

17,406 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Nest-Like Retreat Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
David Vardy, Xiaohan Chen, Guillermo Sanchez sotes
Nest-Like Retreat Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the retreat seamlessly integrates into its forest environment, offering a serene space for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels, enhancing structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
Bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and offers panoramic forest views.
04
Strategically positioned among trees to minimize environmental disruption.
05
Dedicated meditation spaces designed to enhance mindfulness practices.
The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins, informed by the principles of harmony and tranquility, aim to provide a retreat for meditative practices within a forested environment. This architectural project emphasizes the connection between human experience and nature, showcasing a design that fosters introspection and self-awareness. The project consists of a series of sculptural cabins, each uniquely positioned among the trees to create an integrated forest experience.

The architectural design employs sustainable materials, primarily wood, supplemented with recycled components and glass to enhance the relationship between interior spaces and the surrounding environment. The cabins feature minimalistic interiors designed for comfort and an intimate engagement with nature, allowing occupants to partake in mindfulness activities while being immersed in the sounds and sights of the forest.

Unique Spatial Configuration
The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins present an innovative approach to spatial arrangement. The cabins are positioned to reflect a constellation of trees, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem while maximizing views and natural light. Each structure takes on a bird's nest-like form, providing a sense of shelter and safety while allowing for an organic connection with the surrounding landscape. This configuration serves a dual purpose: it fosters an atmosphere of solitude and encourages communal interaction among users.

The incorporation of cross-laminated timber not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also enhances structural stability, ensuring that the cabins withstand environmental changes. The raised design of certain cabins promotes elevated vistas, further integrating the structures into the woodland context. This thoughtful arrangement stands out from conventional cabin designs, emphasizing a non-intrusive presence within nature.

Integration of Natural Elements
The project prioritizes the integration of natural elements into its architectural framework. The use of glass openings throughout the cabins creates seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to flood the interiors while offering unobstructed views of the forest landscape. This design approach enhances occupants' experience, fostering a connection with the natural world.

Moreover, each cabin is equipped with designated meditation areas, specifically designed to facilitate various reflective practices. These spaces, minimalist in nature, bolster the environment's tranquility, essential for effective meditation. The use of natural insulation materials further aligns with the project's sustainable ethos, contributing to energy efficiency while maintaining comfort.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins exemplify a sensitive architectural response to landscape, inviting individuals to engage in self-reflection and mindfulness activities in a serene setting. The design challenges traditional cabin architecture by marrying structural integrity with environmental respect, offering a distinctive experience rooted in nature.

For an in-depth exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements, readers are encouraged to delve further into the project presentation. This will provide valuable insight into the architectural ideas and techniques employed throughout the design process.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,407 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy