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Rotating Columns and Solar Integration in a Nature-Focused Retreat

Author:
Na Ra Park
Rotating Columns and Solar Integration in a Nature-Focused Retreat
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The interplay of rotating columns and integrated solar panels defines a retreat that enhances the connection to nature while offering a multifunctional space for contemplation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating columns allow for customizable exposure to light and views.
02
Integrated solar panels provide renewable energy for lighting.
03
Ground-level patio features a built-in table for functionality.
04
The elevated floor edge enhances comfort for outdoor activities.
05
A dry toilet emphasizes sustainability in design choices.

The Treehouse project invites occupants to connect with nature through a carefully designed space. Set against a backdrop of greenery, the structure features a two-story layout where a glass room on the upper floor maximizes natural light. The design encourages reflection and interaction with the outdoors, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and tranquility.

Spatial Layout
The arrangement includes an upper-level glass room that offers expansive views of the landscape. Occupants can easily move between levels via a stairway, leading to a ground-floor patio. This layout promotes various activities, allowing users to enjoy both quiet moments indoors and engaging experiences outdoors.

Ground-Level Features
A wooden wall on the ground patio serves practical needs, featuring a built-in table and storage that complement the design. The wall adds warmth and functionality without creating clutter. There is also a restroom equipped with a dry toilet, highlighting the focus on sustainability and responsible design choices within the space.

Responsive Elements
One of the notable features is the rotating columns surrounding the patio. These columns can be adjusted, providing flexibility in how light and views enter the space. This responsiveness encourages users to tailor their experience based on personal preference and the shifting time of day.

Lighting Design
The project incorporates two circular glass rings that utilize transparent solar panels for illumination. These rings serve as effective light sources both day and night, while also integrating principles of renewable energy within the design. The inclusion of these elements reflects a commitment to sustainability without compromising aesthetic quality.

The play of light and shadow created by the rotating columns enhances the atmosphere, allowing occupants to feel a deeper connection to their environment as the day unfolds.

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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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