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Polished Black Marble Altar Surrounded by Earth Bags in a Mind Cave Retreat

Author:
Michal Stejskal
Polished Black Marble Altar Surrounded by Earth Bags in a Mind Cave Retreat
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The polished black marble altar, strategically placed above the entrance and complemented by earth bag walls, creates a reflective and grounding space designed for meditation and introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The altar is positioned above the entrance to maximize sunlight exposure.
02
Earth bags used for walls are filled with local soil, promoting sustainability.
03
Polished black marble serves as a reflective surface to enhance introspection.
04
Mud plaster finishes provide natural aesthetics while integrating with the environment.
05
Veitch Boskoop plants are intended to cover the structure over time, enriching the landscape.

The design presents a space for meditation and relaxation located within a natural setting. Emphasizing a spiritual atmosphere, it encourages introspection and connection to the surrounding environment. Through careful attention to layout and material selection, the design aims to support personal journeys of self-discovery.

Spatial Configuration

The concept is built around the metaphor of a cave, which represents the inner workings of the human mind. This idea is reflected in the layout of the space that invites visitors to move downward, symbolizing a journey into their thoughts and emotions. Such an arrangement enhances the experience and fosters a sense of tranquility.

Central Features

An altar for flowers sits prominently above the entrance, accessed by a staircase. This feature acts as a central point in the design, benefiting from natural sunlight and creating a warm atmosphere. Its placement is intentional, drawing the eye without compromising the function of the main area, allowing visitors to engage in a meaningful way.

Material Choices

Polished black marble is used in specific areas, creating reflective surfaces that encourage visitors to think from various angles. This choice reinforces the design's thematic focus on self-exploration. Additionally, earth bags filled with local soil are utilized for the walls, promoting sustainable practices while grounding the building in its landscape.

Finishing Touches

Mud plaster is applied to both the interior and exterior, helping the structure blend into its natural environment. The outer layer is planned to support growth, including plants like Veitch Boskoop, which will gradually cover the building. This choice not only enhances the aesthetic but also strengthens the connection between the design and its surroundings.

The polished black marble altar stands as a centerpiece, inviting stillness and reflection as it interacts with changing light throughout the day.

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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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