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Sound Tubes and Natural Light in a Compact Meditation Cabin

Authors:
Lisha Chen, Chih-ting Yeh
Sound Tubes and Natural Light in a Compact Meditation Cabin
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With distinct sound tubes and abundant natural light, the meditation cabin offers a compact, sustainable space for reflection within a forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sound tubes are integrated into the design to enhance acoustic experiences during meditation.
02
The cabin features open skylights to maximize natural light throughout the interior.
03
Recycled wood is utilized in the heating system, promoting sustainability.
04
Rainwater collection is implemented for practical daily use.
05
Reflective surfaces are strategically placed to engage occupants visually with the forest.

The meditation cabin is designed to fit into its natural surroundings while promoting a deep connection between its users and the environment. Located in a peaceful forest area, this small structure covers less than 15 square meters and serves as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection. The concept is guided by the theme of "voice," influencing both its shape and purpose. By combining a cube structure with sound tubes of varying geometries, the cabin offers an immersive atmosphere for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings in harmony with nature.

Spatial Organization

The cabin's interior is thoughtfully arranged to enhance the user experience. It contains three distinct areas, each focusing on different types of meditation: light, voice, and reflection. The Meditation of Light area utilizes open skylights that allow abundant natural light to fill the space, creating a calming environment. In the Meditation of Voice, adjustable sound plates offer custom acoustic experiences, letting users engage with the sound in various ways. The Meditation of Reflection employs reflective surfaces to visually connect occupants with the forest, encouraging a greater appreciation for the outdoor setting.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a core aspect of this design. The cabin's roof is angled at five degrees to improve rainwater collection, providing a practical resource for daily use. Natural ventilation is facilitated by strategically placed windows that promote airflow while bringing in light. The heating system works with recycled wood, contributing to energy efficiency, and biological methods turned waste into biogas for cooking and lighting. Together, these features significantly lessen the impact on the environment.

Material Selection

Wood is the main construction material used in the cabin. This choice supports the design's focus on sustainability and aligns with cultural ties to the region, particularly in Latvia. The use of wood not only provides strength to the structure but also adds warmth and comfort to the meditation space.

The cabin's exterior reflects a minimalist design, characterized by clean lines and simplicity. This approach helps the structure blend with its surroundings. Throughout the day, the way light interacts with the surfaces of the cabin enhances its visual character, creating a tranquil setting for meditation.

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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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