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Timber Pavilion with Arch Structures Emphasizing Light and Nature

Author:
Fan Chiao-yun
Timber Pavilion with Arch Structures Emphasizing Light and Nature
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With its distinctive arch structures that manipulate light and a timber envelope reflecting traditional craftsmanship, the cabin creates a serene environment for meditation in the Latvian forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Arch structures optimize light throughout the interior.
02
The cabin’s design emphasizes a seamless connection with the surrounding forest.
03
Traditional Latvian carpentry techniques are integrated into the construction.
04
A timber envelope allows the building to develop a natural patina over time.
05
Meditative areas are specifically oriented to encourage reflection and tranquility.

The pavilion cabin creates a unique connection between the forest and the spirit, set in the tranquil Latvian landscape. It is designed to find a balance between human interaction with the environment and the need for conservation. The aim is to enhance the experiences of residents, tourists, and meditators while minimizing environmental impact. The pavilion serves as a place for mindfulness and reflection.

Design Concept

At the core of the design is the challenge of building within a natural setting. The goal is to engage meaningfully with the surrounding forest. The pavilion allows users to connect with the landscape, providing a space that encourages focus and spiritual practices. This solution responds to concerns about the overuse of natural sites, emphasizing sustainable practices that honor the local ecosystem.

Architectural Features

The design incorporates a series of arches that manipulate light and shape the interior experience. These arches, with varying heights and spans, change the quality of light that enters the cabin. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. By using different arch volumes, the architecture provides open spaces that invite meditation while preserving visual links to the outdoors.

Materiality and Cultural Context

The pavilion highlights traditional Latvian carpentry with a timber envelope that shows commitment to simplicity and sustainability. It uses modern wood products to minimize waste and allows the structure to develop a natural patina over time. This choice of materials connects the design to cultural heritage while promoting durability and ecological responsibility.

Spatial Experience

The layout effectively separates the inner area, meant for reflection, from the outside world. This separation is crucial for fostering a contemplative environment. Thoughtful placement of openings and the use of arching forms create a smooth transition between enclosed and open spaces. This design significantly enhances the experience of meditation, offering a calm backdrop that encourages users to connect deeply with their natural surroundings.

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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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