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Thatch-Covered Retreats with Spiraled Shells and Ecological Design

Author:
Mike Mammone
Thatch-Covered Retreats with Spiraled Shells and Ecological Design
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Constructed with locally sourced thatch and Nordic Spruce, these spiraled cabins blend ecological design and functional living, offering a dedicated space for meditation in a serene forest setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a spiraled shell form for enhanced connectivity to nature.
02
Utilizes locally sourced thatch for natural insulation and aesthetic integration.
03
Features retractable insect screens aligned with structural beams for comfort.
04
Incorporates a dry toilet system using a wood-chip composting approach.
05
Elevated on piles to protect the forest floor and preserve the ecosystem.

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins are designed as peaceful spaces for meditation amid a wooded landscape in Ozolini. The project centers on creating an environment that helps individuals reflect and connect with their surroundings. The structure takes the form of a spiraled shell, which is both visually inviting and functionally meaningful. By promoting introspection, it encourages visitors to engage deeply with nature.

Design Concept

At the heart of each cabin is a circular shape with a central focal point. This design invites occupants to look inward while also appreciating the beauty of the outside world. The spiraled form allows for different levels of privacy and openness. The innermost area serves as a cozy cocoon for rest and personal growth. The central space is for daily living, while the open end connects users directly with the forest, providing a compelling experience of nature.

Spatial Features

Several practical elements enhance the comfort and usability of the cabins. The transition from floor to wall is smoothly curved, adding to the natural feel of the space. A retractable insect screen provides comfort while maintaining a clear view. A rotating table can be hidden away when not in use, helping to make the most of limited space. In the sleeping area, a curtain offers privacy and light control. An outdoor access dry toilet uses a smart wood-chip system and off-site composting, ensuring cleanliness without unpleasant odors.

Materiality and Context

The materials used emphasize a connection to local traditions and sustainability. Nordic Spruce is used in the interiors, creating a warm atmosphere with its light color. This contrasts with the darker thatch on the outside, which wraps from the roof to the walls. The thatch adds insulation and blends well into the natural environment. A prefabricated engineered wood structure provides strength while keeping the cabins lightweight. The metal roof membrane offers protection from the elements, ensuring durability.

Design Detail

The Silent Meditation Forest Cabins balance practical features with a respect for the environment. Each cabin is raised on piles, which helps protect the forest floor and allows for a better view of the surroundings. This careful consideration enhances the experience of solace, inviting users to find peace and clarity in a natural setting.

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

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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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