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Translucent Roof Circle and Straw Panels Enhance Mindfulness in Timber Cabin

Author:
Hyemin Kim
Translucent Roof Circle and Straw Panels Enhance Mindfulness in Timber Cabin
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A translucent roof circle allows natural light to penetrate the timber cabin while straw panels provide insulation, creating an inviting environment tailored for mindfulness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
A translucent roof circle creates dynamic light patterns inside the cabin.
02
Straw panels enhance insulation while promoting sustainable practices.
03
The panelled frame introduces a rhythmic quality that engages users with light and shadow.
04
Seating options cater to varied meditative practices and personal comfort.
05
The design encourages a strong connection with the surrounding natural environment.

The meditation cabin project provides a calm space designed for reflection and self-discovery. Located in a natural setting, the structure serves as a dedicated area for mindfulness practices. The design concept focuses on enhancing sensory experiences, allowing users to better understand themselves and the environment around them. This integration of light, space, and material creates an inviting atmosphere for meditation.

Spatial Configuration
The layout of the cabin carefully leads individuals from the outside world into the inner meditation area. Once inside, users find themselves in a space that encourages focus and calmness. The arrangement is deliberate, minimizing distractions and guiding users into a state of contemplation. The design fosters a connection to the natural surroundings, further supporting the meditative experience.

Panel Design
A key feature of the cabin is the panelled frame, which introduces a play of light and shadow. The panels are arranged to let natural light enter the space at different angles and intensities. This not only adds visual interest but also helps create a tranquil atmosphere. Louvers are included in the design to manage the light, enhancing the ability of users to engage with their meditation practice.

Seating Arrangements
Seating is thoughtfully designed to meet various preferences for meditation. Users can choose from areas that offer isolation from distractions or spots that enhance a connection with nature. This flexibility acknowledges that everyone has different ways of meditating. Comfort is prioritized, which further aids in achieving mindfulness during practice.

Material Selection
The materials used in the cabin contribute significantly to its inviting nature. Wood flooring adds warmth and a sense of comfort. Straw panels and wood cladding provide insulation, which helps maintain good air quality within. Timber construction adds stability to the design while blending well with the natural landscape.

A central translucent circle in the roof design allows for natural light to enter while creating a view of the sky above. This feature connects the indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the experience of those meditating inside.

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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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