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Reflective Facade and Honeycomb Geometry Create a Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Iyatunde Majekodunmi, Gina Nikbin, Milagros Oviedo
Reflective Facade and Honeycomb Geometry Create a Retreat in Nature
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A mirrored facade and honeycomb geometry define a secluded retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while offering a tranquil space for relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored facade reflects the surrounding landscape for enhanced camouflage.
02
Honeycomb geometry is used throughout to define spaces and enhance functionality.
03
Distinct split-pitched roof design incorporates skylights for optimal natural light.
04
Indoor gardens are integrated to reinforce the connection between interior and nature.
05
The elevation change leads to a mezzanine level, creating varied spatial experiences.

CABIN KAWENA is designed as a retreat that focuses on connecting with nature. Located along the northeast to southeast axis, the cabin faces the Earth Energies Sanctuary, enhancing privacy while allowing a relationship with the landscape. The primary concept emphasizes integration, allowing the structure to blend into its surroundings and creating a peaceful experience for those inside.

Design Integration

The exterior features a mirrored facade that reflects the natural environment, making CABIN KAWENA blend in with its surroundings. This design allows the building to feel like a part of nature rather than an interruption. It invites visitors to experience the landscape while feeling slightly apart from the outside world, creating a sense of calm.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, CABIN KAWENA uses honeycomb geometry, visible in the walls, windows, and pathways. This pattern serves both as an aesthetic choice and a way to define different areas. The arrangement supports easy movement throughout the space, encouraging occupants to engage with the varying aspects of nature as they explore the interior.

Natural Light and Views

One of the cabin’s notable features is its split-pitched roof, which includes skylights that fill the interior with natural light. This design draws the outdoors into the living space, offering changing views that evolve throughout the day. As guests move through CABIN KAWENA, they encounter shifting landscapes framed by large windows, deepening their connection to the environment.

Environmental Sensitivity

Sustainability is an important part of CABIN KAWENA, with design elements aimed at maximizing natural airflow for ventilation. This thoughtful approach reduces the need for mechanical cooling and heating systems, aligning with the vision of a space that respects nature. Additional indoor gardens and hanging plants reinforce the blend between inside and outside, further enhancing the overall experience.

The spa bath area is carefully set within the honeycomb framework, providing an inviting space for relaxation. Occupants can enjoy a soothing soak while remaining connected to the natural world, which reflects the core idea of CABIN KAWENA’s design.

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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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