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Timber Pods with Reed Bed System for Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Sofiia Novokreshchenova
Timber Pods with Reed Bed System for Sustainable Retreat
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Constructed from local timber and equipped with a Reed Bed Treatment System, the design offers a self-sufficient retreat that embraces sustainability while providing a serene environment for yoga and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with timber sourced from fallen trees in the local forest.
02
Integrates a natural Reed Bed Treatment System for greywater management.
03
Features sleeping pods oriented for maximum natural light and landscape views.
04
Utilizes a photovoltaic roof for energy generation and self-sufficiency.
05
Promotes irrigation of edible plants through recycled water channels.

The Self-Sufficient Mountain Yoga Retreat Centre is situated in the tranquil landscape of Vale de Moses, designed to connect individuals with nature. It provides a space for relaxation and personal growth, focusing on sustainability and ecological responsibility. The overall design seeks to integrate sleeping pods that foster a sense of calm while achieving self-sufficiency.

Reed Bed Treatment System

A key component of the retreat is the Reed Bed Treatment System for managing greywater. This system filters wastewater from the sleeping pods using natural processes and directs it into channels along walking paths. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also recycles water, allowing for irrigation of local plants and enhancing the natural landscape around the retreat.

Photovoltaic Roof

The design includes a photovoltaic roof that contributes to energy efficiency. This roof generates electricity for lighting and heating, as well as providing hot water. By utilizing renewable energy, the retreat reduces its dependence on outside resources while ensuring a comfortable environment for guests.

Water Management Strategy

Water management is an important aspect of the design. Rainwater tanks are positioned near the sleeping pods to collect and store water. A system of piping connects these tanks, allowing for even distribution of the collected rainwater. This strategy promotes conservation and supports the local ecosystem, staying true to the retreat’s commitment to sustainability.

The sleeping pods are constructed from timber sourced from local fallen trees. Each pod has been designed to take full advantage of natural light and offers views of the surrounding environment. This careful placement enhances the experience of being in nature and reinforces the retreat’s focus on ecological balance.

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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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