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Spherical Retreat Crafted from Wood and Clay for Mindful Meditation

Authors:
Agata Kycia, Antoine Richard
Spherical Retreat Crafted from Wood and Clay for Mindful Meditation
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Crafted with a spherical roof and natural materials like wood and clay, the design creates an immersive environment for meditation, fostering a deep connection to the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a circular meditation room to enhance spiritual focus.
02
Features a porous outer envelope for natural ventilation and sun shading.
03
Utilizes natural insulation elements to create a grounded atmosphere.
04
Incorporates essential facilities designed for minimal distraction.
05
Integrates rainwater collection systems to promote sustainability.

The Ananda Meditation Cabin is designed to provide a peaceful retreat set within the quiet forests of Latvia. It serves as a space for meditation, focusing on mindfulness and a deep connection with nature. The design concept prioritizes tranquility and introspection, allowing individuals to escape the demands of everyday life and find solace.

Geometric Form and Layout

At the heart of the cabin is a circular meditation room. This shape encourages a sense of unity, helping individuals feel connected with both their inner selves and the surrounding environment. The circular layout is not just about aesthetics; it enhances the flow of energy and promotes a calming atmosphere, making it easier for occupants to enter a meditative state.

Natural Integration and Materiality

The construction is primarily in wood, reflecting local building traditions while minimizing the environmental footprint. The building's outer envelope is designed to be porous, permitting air to flow naturally and offering protection from direct sunlight. This thoughtful design approach emphasizes the relationship between the cabin and its forest setting, allowing light and nature to interact in meaningful ways throughout the day.

Lighting and Atmosphere

Inside, the cabin features a spherical ceiling that opens to let in soft, diffused light. This design creates an inviting atmosphere that supports the meditation process. The walls are insulated with natural materials, contributing to a warm and grounded feeling within the space. This combination of light and natural elements creates an environment ideal for reflection and calm.

Functional Design Elements

Ananda Cabin includes essential facilities such as dry toilets, showers, and sinks, all integrated smoothly into the overall design. These features are kept simple to ensure that the focus remains on the meditative experience rather than on luxuries. Each area in the cabin supports the primary goal of self-exploration and renewal, providing a space that feels both functional and serene.

The use of natural materials, careful attention to lighting, and an emphasis on a calming atmosphere come together to create an environment where meditation can thrive. Practitioners can engage fully in their practice while being surrounded by the beauty and peace of the Latvian forest. The design reflects a commitment to connecting individuals with nature and nurturing a sense of wellbeing.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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