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Trombe Wall Cabin with Natural Wood Interior and Outdoor Reflection Space

Authors:
Francisco J. Flores, Jesús Mario Sánchez
Trombe Wall Cabin with Natural Wood Interior and Outdoor Reflection Space
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Utilizing a trombe wall for sustainable heating, the cabin integrates local wood materials and provides outdoor spaces for reflection, serving as a retreat for meditation and self-discovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a trombe wall for efficient passive solar heating.
02
Incorporates local wood for ecological and aesthetic alignment with nature.
03
Features a dedicated tea infusion area inspired by Japanese tea culture.
04
Includes a mezzanine that maximizes natural light and open space.
05
Elevated terrace protects against environmental elements while providing outdoor access.

The Mindself Silent Cabin is designed as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection, located in a peaceful natural environment. It serves as a space where users can disconnect from their everyday lives and reconnect with their surroundings and themselves. The design focuses on simplicity and aims to create a calming atmosphere that encourages mindfulness and introspection.

Site Integration

The cabin features vertical facades made from local wooden boards that mimic the surrounding trees. This choice reinforces the connection between the cabin and its environment, allowing it to blend in naturally. The design is kept straightforward to ensure the focus remains on the beautiful landscape that envelops the structure.

Interior Layout

Inside, the cabin prioritizes the use of natural light, enhancing the overall experience for occupants. A wood burning stove supplies warmth and comfort, while the layout includes a mezzanine that opens up the ground floor for various activities. The incorporation of roof windows allows sunlight to enter, creating changing patterns of light and shadow throughout the day, which adds to the tranquil setting.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key aspect of the Mindself Silent Cabin. Locally sourced materials are used for construction, ensuring that the building fits well into its environment and supports local resources. The design includes a trombe wall system that captures solar energy for heating throughout the year. Furthermore, rainwater collection systems are in place to facilitate responsible water management.

User Experience

The design pays careful attention to user experience, particularly through the inclusion of an outdoor terrace that extends the living space. This terrace has a seating area for quiet reflection and is elevated on small columns to protect it from environmental factors such as snow and water. The space invites occupants to step outside and enjoy nature while the small campfire area offers a simple way to warm tea, fostering a connection to the elements.

The interplay between light and shadow within the cabin enhances its peaceful atmosphere. The design encourages users to engage with their thoughts and surroundings, creating a meaningful place for reflection and mindfulness.

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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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