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Plexiglass Retreat Surrounded by Nature for Mindful Practices

Author:
Jiri Trojan
Plexiglass Retreat Surrounded by Nature for Mindful Practices
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Constructed with plexiglass and wooden frames, the cabin offers a harmonious space for meditation within the immersive landscape of the New Zealand bush, prioritizing a deep connection to nature and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with plexiglass for natural light and views.
02
Dedicated area for processing flower essences from local plants.
03
Includes a small altar to enhance the meditation experience.
04
Open terrace facilitates direct engagement with the surrounding nature.
05
Utilizes precision-engineered wooden frames for structural integrity.

The Tiny Kiwi Meditation Cabin is located in a peaceful clearing within the New Zealand bush, designed to provide a refuge for meditation and relaxation. It focuses on connecting people to nature through its thoughtful design. The concept behind the cabin encourages tranquility and mindfulness while integrating the natural landscape with the built environment.

Spatial Arrangement

The cabin features a clear balance between enclosed and open areas. About two-thirds of the structure is covered with plexiglass sheets, allowing sunlight to brighten the interior while keeping it protected from inclement weather. This enclosed area serves multiple functions, acting as a meditation space and a workspace for processing flower essences from local plants. A small altar is included to create a focused and contemplative atmosphere.

Outdoor Engagement

The remaining one-third of the cabin is an open terrace that connects guests directly to the landscape. This outdoor space encourages visitors to engage with the surrounding nature, offering a place for quiet reflection or group meditations in the open air. The combination of covered and open areas creates a versatile environment, accommodating both communal practices and individual moments of solitude.

Construction Techniques

The structure’s strength is achieved through well-designed wooden elements. The use of wooden frames and window constructions adds to the stability of the cabin. Wooden glued frames crafted with CNC milling technology ensure precision while maintaining an appealing appearance. These building methods contribute to the quality of the overall structure and reinforce its connection with the natural surroundings.

Materiality and Texture

Careful choices in materials enhance the cabin's design. The wooden frames and plexiglass play essential roles in creating warmth and openness. The design includes a wooden deck that extends the usable space for outdoor activities, allowing users to engage more fully with their environment. These elements reflect a design philosophy that values ecological sensitivity and user experience, emphasizing the importance of nature in promoting well-being.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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