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Skylit Octagonal Retreat Crafted from Sustainable Spruce and Recycled Materials

Authors:
Daniella Zlotogoura, Jose Maria Vizcaya Martinez, Adriana Consuegra Navarro
Skylit Octagonal Retreat Crafted from Sustainable Spruce and Recycled Materials
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Crafted with sustainable spruce and an octagonal design, this compact retreat integrates a skylight for natural illumination and ventilation, offering a tranquil space for meditation and reflection in a forested setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features an octagonal design that enhances spatial fluidity and integration with nature.
02
Constructed with sustainably sourced spruce wood, emphasizing ecological responsibility.
03
Incorporates a skylight to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and environmental harmony.
05
Designed as a multi-functional space for meditation, yoga, and reflection.

The Focus Cabin is an architectural project designed to provide a serene space for meditation and reflection, situated within a forested environment. Its compact footprint of 5.2 square meters emphasizes functionality while promoting a deep connection with nature. The use of sustainable materials and an efficient design facilitates a peaceful retreat, focusing on the well-being of its users.

Design and Layout

This project features an octagonal geometric layout that encourages inclusivity and openness. The interior is characterized by adaptable spaces that serve multiple purposes, ideal for activities like yoga, meditation, and quiet contemplation. The vertical skylight allows natural light to flood the interior while maintaining privacy, creating a feeling of integration with the outdoor environment.

The materiality of the Focus Cabin is a vital aspect of its design. The primary construction material, spruce wood, not only offers aesthetic appeal but also aligns with sustainable building practices. This wood is complemented by wooden shingles on the roof, contributing to the cabin’s seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Glass elements are strategically placed to enhance natural illumination, promoting energy efficiency while fostering a direct visual connection with the forest.

Sustainability as a Core Principle

The Focus Cabin exemplifies sustainable architectural practices. Its compact design minimizes land use, while the choice of local and recycled materials reduces the overall carbon footprint. Passive design strategies, including natural ventilation and thermal insulation provided by composite insulation panels, optimize the cabin's climate control without reliance on mechanical systems. Air vents and thoughtfully designed windows ensure a continuous flow of fresh air, enhancing the indoor environment while maintaining connectivity to the natural surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

Distinctive to the Focus Cabin is its attention to psychological well-being and mindfulness. The configuration supports a variety of personal introspective activities and communal gatherings, enhancing the versatility of the space. Built-in storage solutions keep the interior uncluttered, allowing occupants to focus on relaxation and contemplation. The combination of sustainable features and an adaptable layout makes this cabin a thoughtful model for contemporary architectural practices aimed at fostering well-being and environmental consciousness.

For those interested in exploring the project further, architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs provide additional insights into the innovative ideas underpinning the Focus Cabin. Engaging with these elements will offer a deeper understanding of the design philosophy and the careful considerations that have shaped this unique architectural endeavor.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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