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Scented Pathways Through Organic Forms in a Serene Retreat

Authors:
Mostafa Salem, Yehia Mokhtar
Scented Pathways Through Organic Forms in a Serene Retreat
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Integrating a scent-releasing Essence Holder along a pathway, the retreat uses organic forms and wooden beams to create a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a scent-releasing Essence Holder along the approach path.
02
The cabin features organic forms that mirror its natural surroundings.
03
Wooden beams are used to enhance structural integrity while maintaining aesthetics.
04
Users experience a gradual transition from open landscape to secluded interior.
05
The space accommodates diverse meditation practices with varying exposure levels.

The Meditation Cabin is designed to provide a space for reflection and inner peace. Set within a lush landscape, it functions as a retreat that invites its users to leave behind daily distractions and engage deeply with nature. From the beginning of the journey to the cabin, visitors are encouraged to embrace their senses, setting the tone for their experience before they even arrive.

Conceptual Framework

A central aspect of the design is "The Essence Holder," a feature along the pathway that releases a scent from local flowers. This element is carefully placed to engage users as they walk towards the cabin, enhancing their sensory experience. By introducing this fragrant element, the aim is to deepen the connection between the users and the natural environment surrounding them.

Morphological Design

The shape of the Meditation Cabin reflects its natural setting. It features an organic form that blends with the landscape, promoting a sense of harmony. The design employs symmetry and repetition, incorporating vertical and rounded elements that evoke feelings of comfort and calm. These characteristics not only provide visual interest but also ensure that the space accommodates different forms of meditation.

Material Selection

Material choices are fundamental to the design's effectiveness. Plywood and wooden beams are the primary materials, selected for both their strength and their aesthetic appeal. The use of these materials helps create a warm and inviting space while also ensuring durability. This selection supports the overall goal of fostering a tranquil atmosphere conducive to meditation.

As users approach the cabin, they begin their journey under the protective cover of trees, gradually moving toward a more secluded interior. This transition from the open air to the cabin creates a focused environment for thought and reflection. The careful arrangement of materials and design elements makes the cabin not just a physical space but a haven for mindful practice.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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