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Translucent Skin and Natural Timber for Therapeutic Retreat

Author:
Désirée Abboud
Translucent Skin and Natural Timber for Therapeutic Retreat
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The combination of translucent skin and natural timber creates a tranquil retreat that enhances therapeutic practices while promoting a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates a translucent skin that enhances natural light variation throughout the day.
02
Green plants are strategically placed to support a calming and therapeutic environment.
03
The longitudinal roof design draws inspiration from local architectural traditions.
04
Interior spaces allow for fluid movement and distinct areas for interaction.
05
Access is provided through an inwardly extruded door for an inviting entrance.

The therapeutic cabin is designed to create a calming environment, set in a natural landscape that enhances its purpose. It focuses on supporting mental well-being through the intelligent use of light and color, alongside an emphasis on spatial experience. The layout encourages an open connection to the surrounding area, allowing users to immerse themselves in nature while finding comfort in a therapeutic setting.

Design Concept

The architectural approach merges contemporary and traditional elements, particularly with its longitudinal rooftop, which draws inspiration from local housing styles. This choice respects regional traditions and serves a practical function for the building. The cabin is intended to create a balanced relationship with its environment, inviting people to experience both inside and outside as interconnected spaces.

Materials and Structure

A translucent skin surrounds the cabin, enabling light to flood the interior during daylight hours. This natural light creates a calm atmosphere, while the contrast with darkness at night enhances the perception of space within. The use of natural timber in the structure adds warmth and reinforces the connection to the landscape. Together, these materials contribute to a sensory experience that promotes a sense of peace, essential for therapeutic activities.

Interior Layout

The interior is organized to prioritize user experience, ensuring comfort and accessibility. Distinct areas within the cabin support different interactions between the therapist and client. An inwardly extruded door serves as a welcoming entry point. Adding to the soothing environment, green plants are integrated throughout the space, enhancing its calming effects and aligning with the cabin’s healing purpose.

Design Detailing

Attention to detail is evident in the balance of mass and void within the cabin. This thoughtful arrangement allows for moments of reflection alongside opportunities for engagement. The careful use of color and transparency contributes to the tranquil atmosphere. A notable aspect is how light enters the cabin, casting shifting shadows that change throughout the day. This dynamic quality adds to the overall experience, making it rich and visually interesting for those who use the space.

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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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