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Suspended Platform Surrounded by Glass in a Meditation Retreat

Author:
Raphaela Hitsch
Suspended Platform Surrounded by Glass in a Meditation Retreat
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A suspended platform encased in a glass facade provides a serene environment for meditation, allowing the cabin to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while facilitating therapeutic practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended platform design allows for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
02
A glass facade enhances natural light while maintaining privacy with adjustable light curtains.
03
Four additional cabins create a village-like atmosphere, each oriented for optimal sunlight.
04
Integrated outdoor platforms facilitate yoga and meditation practices in a natural setting.
05
Utilizes a minimal material palette, emphasizing wood and glass for a harmonious aesthetic.

The ALMA | SOUL CABIN is situated in Vale de Moses and serves as a meditation retreat focused on mindfulness and therapeutic practices. The design is simple yet functional, aimed at creating a welcoming environment that promotes reflection and a connection with nature. This project embodies a thoughtful approach to design, integrating elements that help users find peace and serenity.

Design Approach

The cabin features a suspended platform that rests on three closets. These closets serve multiple purposes, including storage and ventilation, which helps keep the interior uncluttered. This layout allows the space to function effectively for therapeutic activities, ensuring that users can focus without distraction. By minimizing visual noise, the design emphasizes the importance of an open environment in promoting well-being.

Connection to the Outdoors

One significant aspect of the cabin is its glass facade, which connects the interior with the natural surroundings. This transparency invites light into the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Users can enjoy views of the landscape while inside, fostering a sense of calm. The option to use light curtains allows the space to adapt, providing privacy when needed while still enhancing the overall experience.

Functional Layout

Inside, the design is organized to support various activities, with dedicated areas for therapy and storage that do not interfere with movement. The project also includes four additional cabins arranged like a small community, each oriented differently to maximize sunlight and views. This arrangement not only adds visual interest but also encourages exploration. The varying heights of the cabins create a lively environment, urging visitors to engage with their surroundings.

Outdoor Features

Outdoor spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the design. Wooden platforms and a pergola support activities such as yoga and meditation while offering areas for relaxation. Hammocks can be added, providing users with options to unwind. The pergola is adaptable, allowing for the addition of curtains or plants, which helps users personalize their experience based on their preferences.

The ALMA | SOUL CABIN illustrates an approach to design that prioritizes functionality and a close relationship with nature. Every detail is considered to support the retreat’s purpose, inviting visitors to experience tranquility and mindfulness in a harmonious setting.

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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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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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