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Reflective Cabin with Laminated Wood Emphasizing Meditative Space

Authors:
Keith Lashley, Andrew Tesmacher
Reflective Cabin with Laminated Wood Emphasizing Meditative Space
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The use of a mirrored facade and laminated wood creates a reflective cabin that encourages introspection and meditation within a tranquil natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin features a mirrored facade that enhances self-reflection and connection with nature.
02
Interior cabinets hold crystals that create prismatic light effects based on user preference.
03
Design incorporates Maori symbolism in the surrounding garden to deepen the meditative experience.
04
Phase change materials in the walls effectively manage temperature by storing and releasing solar energy.
05
The structure uses laminated wood beams, showcasing a commitment to sustainable materials and practices.

The -ion Meditation cabin is a thoughtfully designed space that aims to foster introspection and self-discovery. Set in a landscape of natural beauty, the cabin encourages users to engage with their environment while contemplating important life questions. The design connects deeply with nature, guiding individuals toward a meaningful meditative experience through its reflective surfaces and organic shapes.

Reflective Facade

The cabin features a mirrored facade that allows individuals to see their reflections in the surrounding environment. This design choice creates a connection with nature, prompting users to reflect on their identities and place in the world. As they approach the cabin, their image grows smaller compared to the larger trees and plants nearby, forming a visual reminder of the exploration of self.

Interior and Garden Interaction

Transitioning from the garden to the cabin interior enhances the overall sensory experience. The garden consists of various zones inspired by Maori symbols, particularly the koru, which encourages meditation and contemplation. This arrangement invites interaction with nature, enabling users to connect more fully during their reflective moments.

Lighting and Adaptability

Inside the cabin, there are cabinets that hold crystals designed to cast prismatic light across the space. Users can choose to reveal or conceal these crystals behind sliding pocket doors. This flexibility allows for adjustments based on personal preferences, making it easy for individuals to create the right atmosphere for either stimulation or calm.

Thermal Management

An effective heating and cooling system is also a key feature of the cabin. It uses phase change material (PCM) eutectic salts contained in sealed aluminum cannisters. This system captures solar energy to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year. The primary structure is made from laminated wood beams and columns, with recycled materials incorporated into the design. This choice highlights a commitment to sustainability, merging practical concerns with aesthetic appeal.

The interior invites quiet reflection through its spatial organization and intelligent use of light, creating a space where individuals can explore their thoughts in a calm environment.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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