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Pine Wood Retreat Embracing Nature Through Sliding Shutters

Author:
Cláudia Nunes
Pine Wood Retreat Embracing Nature Through Sliding Shutters
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Incorporating sliding shutters for adaptable privacy and constructed primarily from locally sourced pine wood, the retreat seamlessly integrates into its landscape, providing a tranquil space for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates adjustable bases to adapt to varying terrain.
02
Sliding shutters allow for personalized control of light and privacy.
03
Modular platforms connect cabins, creating dynamic outdoor spaces.
04
The retreat utilizes local pine wood for structural and aesthetic purposes.
05
Greywater from sinks is reused to nourish surrounding gardens.

The Cocoon is an architectural design that highlights the relationship between a building and its natural surroundings, creating a space for meditation and reflection. Located in a tranquil area, it serves as a retreat, designed with a focus on safety and comfort. The concept prioritizes user experience, allowing individuals to engage deeply with nature while finding solace in an enclosed environment.

Design Concept

The Cocoon embodies the idea that meditation is best supported by a space that balances openness and privacy. The structure's form is structured to blend with the landscape, diminishing its presence within the environment. This careful consideration allows the building to complement its natural surroundings, providing a peaceful setting that encourages contemplation.

Spatial Organization

The interior layout offers two distinct spaces to meet varied needs. The ground floor features large windows that provide wide views, enabling quiet observation of the outside world. Minimal visual barriers enhance the experience of being around nature. Users can manage privacy and light levels with sliding shutters, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. In contrast, the first floor allows for greater interaction with the elements, encouraging occupants to connect with the outdoors.

Sustainable Features

A strong commitment to sustainability runs through The Cocoon. It is designed to be self-sufficient, generating its own energy and utilizing systems for water management. Adjustable bases help the building adapt to the terrain, ensuring minimal disruption to the local ecosystem. The connection between the cabins is achieved through modular wooden platforms, which create additional outdoor spaces for meditation and facilitate the reuse of grey water to nourish surrounding vegetation.

Material Selection

Materials in The Cocoon are chosen to reflect the local environment and promote sustainability. The use of pine wood throughout the structure not only ties the building to the region but also supports local resources. This choice enhances the design’s connection to nature while ensuring that the materials are functional and practical.

The adaptable sliding shutters provide flexibility for users, allowing privacy when needed while also inviting natural light and air into the space. This feature supports a comfortable atmosphere, whether for personal reflection or shared experiences in the outdoors.

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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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