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Solar-Powered Retreat with Dry Toilet Integration for Introspection

Authors:
Rigved Nimkhedkar, Mihir Kshirsagar, Parnavi Harde
Solar-Powered Retreat with Dry Toilet Integration for Introspection
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Incorporating solar panels and dry toilets, the retreat offers a sustainable and intimate setting for solitude and self-reflection within a thoughtfully designed landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates solar panels generating approximately 2KW of energy.
02
Utilizes dry toilets to significantly reduce water consumption.
03
Features a layout that balances privacy with natural engagement.
04
Constructed using pre-fabricated elements for efficient assembly.
05
Designed for solitude with focused areas for introspection and reflection.

Moksha is an architectural retreat designed to offer individuals a peaceful space for introspection and connection with nature. Located in a serene landscape, it serves those looking for solitude for four to five days. The design emphasizes a balance with the natural environment, creating a restorative place that fosters personal reflection while reducing ecological impact.

Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability is a key aspect of Moksha's design. The project is built to have a small carbon footprint, allowing the natural surroundings to remain intact even if the cabins were removed. Solar panels are included to capture sunlight and provide around 2KW of energy. Additionally, dry toilets are used to significantly lower water consumption, showcasing a strong commitment to managing resources wisely.

Spatial Organization

Moksha features a well-planned layout that focuses on privacy and easy access. The arrangement of cabins is designed to offer secluded areas while still encouraging connection to the surrounding landscape. Pathways are thoughtfully created to help guests move easily throughout the retreat. This design effectively balances solitude with opportunities to engage with nature.

Guest Comfort and Safety

The retreat also addresses guest comfort and safety through modern amenities. Electric and battery-operated insect repellents enhance the living experience, while electric heaters provide warmth during cooler months. Walkie-talkies are available for easy communication with on-site support, ensuring that guests can receive assistance when needed.

Construction methods used in Moksha include plinth placement and the installation of pre-fabricated cavity walls. These approaches contribute to an efficient building process. A notable detail is the roofing system, which is designed to blend with the landscape, highlighting the retreat's focus on a low-impact lifestyle.

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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

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