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Translucent Polycarbonate Retreat Embracing Natural Elements in a Serene Valley

Authors:
Alberto Bruno, Jacopo Consoli, Sergio Silvestro Sanfilippo
Translucent Polycarbonate Retreat Embracing Natural Elements in a Serene Valley
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Crafted from translucent polycarbonate and pine wood, the meditation cabin harmonizes with its remote valley setting, offering a unique retreat for introspection and healing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflects principles of human-scale design for enhanced user experience.
02
Incorporates a translucent envelope for natural light and connection to nature.
03
Utilizes a water collection system for sustainable resource management.
04
Features photovoltaic glass for energy efficiency without obstructing views.
05
Sits in a remote valley, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings.

The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabin is located in an ancient valley, providing a quiet space for meditation and reflection. The design focuses on a strong connection to the natural surroundings, creating an environment that encourages calmness and introspection. The cabin's form is carefully designed to match human scale, avoiding unnecessary bulk, which helps it blend into the landscape. This thoughtful approach promotes a feeling of belonging, inviting occupants to engage with nature.

Concept and Design Philosophy

The design is based on the idea of harmony with nature. The cabin features layers, with a translucent inner envelope that wraps around therapy spaces, maintaining privacy while connecting with the outside. The outer layer is permeable, enabling interaction with the environment. This design shows how architecture can adapt to the seasons, fostering a lasting relationship with the natural world.

Materials and Sustainability

Material choices are essential to the cabin's design, ensuring sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Polycarbonate panels serve as the main material, offering lightness, thermal insulation, and sound protection. Pine wood is used for structural elements, contributing to a natural look while providing strength. These materials work together to create a construction that is both functional and environmentally friendly.

Energy Efficiency and Systems

The cabin employs various energy solutions that align with modern sustainability practices. Photovoltaic glass is incorporated to generate energy without obstructing views of the landscape. A water collection system is also included, allowing for practical use and irrigation. These features emphasize the focus on eco-friendly design.

Light filters through the polycarbonate walls, creating soft shadows and patterns inside. This play of light enhances the meditative experience, connecting the interior with the outside world. The changing sunlight transforms the space, inviting reflection and a deeper sense of peace.

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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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