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Rammed Earth Retreat Utilizes Sound-Insulating Glazing for Urban Meditation

Author:
Niklas Neumann
Rammed Earth Retreat Utilizes Sound-Insulating Glazing for Urban Meditation
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Constructed with rammed earth and sound-insulating glazing, these cabins offer a sustainable retreat for meditation, providing a tranquil escape from the urban environment of Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance acoustic insulation while promoting sustainability.
02
Automated skylights provide ventilation to maintain a comfortable environment during use.
03
The use of sound-insulating glazing ensures auditory privacy within urban surroundings.
04
Interiors feature backlit shoji paper that softens lighting and adds cultural heritage.
05
Cabins incorporate versatile storage solutions tailored for personal and communal use.

The Tokyo Urban Meditation Cabins design proposal responds to the needs of city dwellers looking for quiet moments amidst the lively environment of Tokyo. These cabins focus on providing spaces for reflection and meditation, taking inspiration from the Enso, a symbol linked to Zen Buddhism. The overall design emphasizes harmony and simplicity, aiming to create a peaceful atmosphere for users.

Design Concept
The layout of each Meditation Cabin features circular patterns that align with Zen principles, promoting a natural flow throughout the space. This design encourages individuals to engage in meditation within a calming and visually appealing environment. The minimalist style removes unnecessary distractions, allowing the user’s experience to remain central.

Material Selection
Material choices are key in shaping the cabin’s character and functionality. A 3mm metal covering provides strength and durability. Solar foil from Heliatek and Kaneka supports sustainable energy use within the cabin. Sound-insulating glazing, specifically Trosifol® SC, helps to block out the outside noise of the busy city, creating an ideal space for quiet reflection.

Interior Design
Interiors emphasize comfort and practicality. A round bench with built-in storage accommodates personal items and communal cushions, combining functionality with simplicity. Soft lighting comes from backlit, tear-resistant shoji paper that lines the walls, enhancing the gentle atmosphere. Metal guide rails maintain the design’s clean lines while ensuring everything fits together well.

Operational Functionality
In each cabin, automated skylights provide ventilation, keeping the environment fresh and comfortable for users. The entrance door opens automatically, making it easy for people to access the space without noise interruption. This thoughtful approach to both technology and design allows individuals to enjoy the cabin experience fully, focusing on their meditation without distractions.

Overall, the design balances form with practical needs. It creates a space where individuals can escape from the pace of city life and engage in their own moments of tranquillity.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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