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Sliding Timber Panels Enhancing Privacy and Connection in Urban Meditation Space

Author:
Nada Elmi
Sliding Timber Panels Enhancing Privacy and Connection in Urban Meditation Space
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Sliding timber panels create a flexible environment that prioritizes privacy and social interaction, enabling urban residents to engage in meditation practices within a thoughtfully designed space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sliding panels allow flexible light and privacy control.
02
Solid timber construction enhances warmth and stability.
03
Advanced joinery techniques ensure structural resilience.
04
Dynamic facade creates varied spatial experiences.
05
Entrance design features an overhead sliding mechanism for easy access.

The architectural design captures the essence of finding tranquility in the busy environment of Tokyo. It serves as a place for residents to retreat, facilitating meditation and moments of calm amidst urban distractions. The overall concept is built around creating adaptable spaces, allowing users to connect with their inner peace while engaging with the social aspects of city life.

Dynamic Panel System

An innovative sliding panel system is a key feature of the design. Users can adjust these panels to control the amount of light in the space. When the panels are raised, natural light fills the interior, encouraging social interaction. Alternatively, lowering the panels creates privacy and reduces sunlight, making the environment more personal and reflective. This user-driven adaptability shapes how individuals experience their surroundings.

Structural Framework

Timber is central to the structure, adding both strength and warmth. The design includes four vertical bearing elements made from solid timber, providing durability. Advanced joinery techniques connect these posts securely, ensuring that the building can withstand seismic activity while remaining lightweight. This approach highlights a respect for traditional craftsmanship and a commitment to sustainability in the design.

Exterior Treatment

The exterior features a mix of solid and hollow panels arranged thoughtfully. This arrangement captures interest visually while allowing residents to interact with the environment actively. The panels can be adjusted for various configurations, enabling users to create spaces that suit their needs. This connection between the design and its occupants enhances a sense of well-being in the urban landscape.

Entrance Design

An overhead sliding mechanism forms the entrance, facilitating easy access and creating smooth transitions into the space. This choice aligns with the design's focus on fluidity, encouraging effortless movement for users. The entrance detail reflects a dedication to functional design, ensuring that users immediately feel a sense of connection to the environment as they enter the building.

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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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