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Reflective Glass Wall with Natural Wood and Stone Elements in a Forest Cabin

Author:
Andreas Amdahl
Reflective Glass Wall with Natural Wood and Stone Elements in a Forest Cabin
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A reflective glass wall and locally sourced wood combine to create a tranquil cabin that elevates meditation above the forest floor, fostering a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass wall enhances light and views while maintaining privacy.
02
Elevated meditation space fosters a unique perspective among the treetops.
03
Large skylight directs natural light directly onto the podium area.
04
Use of locally sourced wood reinforces site-specific materiality.
05
Podium serves dual functions for meditation and practical applications.

The cabin is located in a forest clearing and is designed to immerse visitors in the natural surroundings. The layout makes use of the site’s slope, elevating the meditation area above ground. This positioning allows people to feel as if they are surrounded by trees rather than standing on solid ground. The primary goal is to create a tranquil environment that encourages contemplation and connection with nature.

Exterior Integration

The shape of the cabin resembles an object rather than a conventional building. Its exterior is made with reflective surfaces, allowing it to blend into the landscape. This design choice creates a sense of unity with nature, emphasizing that the structure complements rather than competes with its surroundings. The cabin is set up to enhance the feeling that one is part of the forest.

Interior Configuration

Inside, the design shifts towards natural elements, moving away from the camouflaged exterior. When entering the cabin, visitors experience an expanding space, culminating in a large glass wall that frames the trees outside. This feature not only lets in natural light but also deepens the connection to the immediate environment. Next to the glass wall is a podium, which serves two purposes: it can be used for meditation or for practical activities like working with flower essences. The podium receives direct sunlight from a large skylight positioned above it, emphasizing its importance in the design.

Material Choices

The structure uses locally sourced wood, reinforcing the connection to the site. Visible posts and beams add a rustic quality to the interior. The walls, floors, and ceilings are finished with light parquet, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each material element has been chosen to enhance the overall experience of being in a natural setting.

Construction Techniques

Simple construction methods support the project’s sustainable goals. Wood framing rests on a pier and beam foundation, reducing the need for large amounts of concrete. This approach makes the building lightweight and more adaptable to its environment. The cladding combines mirrors and two-way mirrors for the windows, allowing people inside to see outside while maintaining privacy.

The design includes a large skylight that bridges the indoor and outdoor spaces. It provides daylight during the day and allows the occupants to feel connected to the forest while using the podium. This aspect of the design promotes a sense of calm and a greater awareness of the surrounding nature.

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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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