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Rainwater Collecting Oculus in a Polygonal Wooden Cabin

Authors:
Marie Le Roy, Caroline Jousset
Rainwater Collecting Oculus in a Polygonal Wooden Cabin
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The polygonal wooden cabin, characterized by its central rainwater-collecting oculus and minimalist interior, provides a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a central oculus that collects rainwater for drainage.
02
The exterior is clad in wooden scales that offer a tactile texture and visual warmth.
03
A polygonal platform invites users to remove their shoes before entering.
04
The design allows for adaptable use of the fireplace for seasonal needs.
05
The structure relies on small wooden elements supported by metal piles for stability.

The meditation cabin is located in a quiet natural setting designed to encourage reflection and mindfulness. Inspired by the Japanese enso symbol, it emphasizes the connection between users and their environment. The cabin features a unique form reminiscent of traditional wooden huts, highlighted by an oculus that brings in natural light. The overall concept seeks to create a space that promotes contemplation while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.

Exterior Design

The design of the cabin presents a polygonal shape that blends modern ideas with traditional styles. Wooden scales cover the exterior, complemented by polished glass, creating a balance between openness and privacy. The oculus is intentionally positioned to allow light to wash over the interior, symbolizing a connection to the skies. The entrance, framed by a narrow crack, invites visitors into a peaceful space that encourages quiet thought.

Interior Layout

Inside, the layout is carefully planned to guide individuals as they transition from the outside world to a space of calm. A polygonal platform is raised above the floor level, encouraging users to remove their shoes. This act symbolizes the release of outside distractions. The platform also includes niches for storage, which helps maintain a clean and simple environment suitable for meditation. The open spaces within the cabin allow for movement and thought without obstruction.

Functional Features

At the heart of the cabin is a fireplace that adapts according to the seasons. During colder months, it provides warmth and creates a cozy atmosphere. In rainy weather, the fireplace cleverly collects water through the oculus, enhancing its usefulness. When not in use for fire, the fireplace can become a flat surface for drying flowers, further linking the cabin to its natural surroundings.

Structural Considerations

Building methods for the cabin include small wooden elements supported by metal piles. This approach ensures stability and makes assembly easier in remote areas. The arrangement of the structural elements allows for views toward the entrance and culminates in the oculus, improving the experience of entering the space. This design detail shows careful consideration of both strength and the ability to connect with the landscape.

The integration of light, space, and function creates a calm environment that invites visitors to engage in deep meditation.

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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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