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Sheep Wool Insulation and Shou Sugi Ban Create a Spiraling Retreat

Authors:
Kaavya Chhatrapati, Cameron Young
Sheep Wool Insulation and Shou Sugi Ban Create a Spiraling Retreat
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Constructed with shou sugi ban cladding and enhanced by sheep wool insulation, the spiraling cabin serves as a serene retreat for meditation and yoga within a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral form guides users from outside to interior space.
02
Constructed using local materials, including sheep wool insulation.
03
Walls open along the spiral curve to enhance natural light.
04
Prefabricated grid shell panels minimize construction impact.
05
Integrated fireplace serves as a lightwell and gathering point.

The Kiwi Cabin Spiral Hut is designed as a tranquil space for meditation and self-reflection. Set within a peaceful landscape, its structure features a spiral form that leads users from the outside world into an interior meant for yoga and contemplation. The design aims to create a strong connection with nature, providing a place that encourages users to focus inward while feeling enveloped by the environment around them.

Spatial Organization

As users move through the cabin, the spiral shape offers an intentional journey that enhances the experience of entering the space. The design ensures that occupants can immerse themselves in nature, increasing their awareness and connection to their surroundings. This thoughtful arrangement creates privacy while maintaining an open feel and allows for expansive views of the landscape.

Material Selection

The cabin emphasizes sustainability through its careful selection of materials. Sheep's wool insulation provides effective temperature control without harmful off-gassing. The use of cork for the floors adds comfort and durability, making it suitable for practices such as yoga. The structure is built with locally sourced pine and beech wood, which not only lowers the environmental impact but also contributes a warm ambiance that feels inviting.

Functional Features

A fireplace is integrated into the design, adding warmth and serving as both a light source and a gathering point. This feature enhances the atmosphere inside the cabin, inviting occupants to interact and share while still promoting moments of solitude. The fireplace acts as a focal point, generating dynamic light patterns that enrich the meditative experience within the space.

Construction Approach

Using prefabricated grid shell panels, the construction process is streamlined for efficiency. This method reduces disruption to the surrounding landscape and supports environmentally friendly practices. Combining lightweight materials in the design reflects a commitment to sustainability while maintaining a straightforward architectural language.

The Kiwi Cabin Spiral Hut captures a simple, yet profound approach to architecture. Each aspect of the design works together to create a lively yet calming environment that encourages quiet reflection amidst the beauty of 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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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