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Wood Columns and Glass Pavilion Embracing Nature in a Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Ryan Debski, Alexa Hansford
Wood Columns and Glass Pavilion Embracing Nature in a Tranquil Retreat
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Set among towering trees, a glass pavilion anchored by wood columns creates a serene environment for meditation and self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Set within a forest, the cabin is elevated to minimize land impact.
02
Wood columns create a rhythmic structure that integrates with the landscape.
03
Large glass walls foster transparency and a direct connection to nature.
04
A composting toilet pavilion emphasizes sustainability and resource efficiency.
05
The design incorporates a winding pathway, enhancing the journey through the forest.

The Silent Forest Meditation Cabin is a thoughtfully designed space that connects with the natural environment, located in a peaceful forest setting. It functions as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection, inviting occupants to immerse themselves in the surrounding landscape. The design focuses on using elevation changes to enhance the experience between visitors and the forest, guiding them through a journey of exploration that encourages mindfulness.

Spatial Arrangement

The cabin features multiple levels, each serving a specific purpose. The entry level welcomes visitors with familiar sounds—the crunch of leaves and the presence of towering trees. This sensory experience helps cultivate a calm atmosphere, setting the stage for deeper reflection as occupants transition from the outside world to a more meditative state.



Functional Design

Level Two includes a composting toilet pavilion, which provides necessary amenities while supporting sustainability. The design is surrounded by a canopy of leaves, offering shelter from light rain. This practical setup allows occupants to stay engaged with nature, even in less than perfect weather conditions. Such careful planning maintains a strong connection to the environment during everyday activities.



Meditation and Reflection

The third level comprises a living area pavilion with a winding pathway that invites exploration. As individuals make their way up, they find themselves among wood columns that frame their journey, allowing light to permeate the space. This helps remind occupants of the beauty of the natural world and emphasizes the cabin's role in facilitating mindfulness.



Pinnacle Experience

At the top of the structure, the meditation pavilion provides a simple glass room designed for focus and tranquility. Inside, a single teapot sits as a subtle centerpiece. The pavilion includes a balcony offering expansive views of the forest. The glass walls create a sense of transparency, making it easy for occupants to feel they are part of the surrounding nature, enriching their experience of reflection and meditation.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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