Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Ceramic-Inspired Walls and Rammed Earth Integration in a Community Wellness Center

Authors:
Danaiporn Pongamornprom, Hatainan Mahayodkul
Ceramic-Inspired Walls and Rammed Earth Integration in a Community Wellness Center

Project in-detail

The ceramic-inspired feature walls and rammed earth construction create a unique sensory environment for a community wellness center designed to foster health and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ceramic walls incorporate unique geometric patterns inspired by traditional Azulejos.
02
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal performance and environmental sustainability.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light and blur indoor-outdoor boundaries.
04
An infinity pool reflects surrounding nature, integrating water features into wellness.
05
Flexible spaces adapt easily for multiple activities, promoting community engagement.

The Azulejo architectural design project is a wellness center that draws inspiration from traditional Portuguese Azulejos, which are decorative ceramic tiles known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. This project merges cultural heritage with modern design principles, promoting a focus on well-being and community interaction. The architectural design emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, creating an inviting environment for various activities related to health and relaxation.

The primary function of the Azulejo project is to provide a versatile space that accommodates activities such as yoga, communal dining, and social gatherings. The layout facilitates easy movement between different areas, ensuring a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. The design encourages community engagement, with open areas designed for shared experiences. The presence of natural elements, such as a saltwater infinity pool, complements the wellness ethos promoted by the architectural design.

Material selection plays a vital role in the project. The use of clay for wall construction not only reflects the cultural aspect of Azulejos but also provides a natural and non-toxic building solution. Galvanized steel contributes structural integrity while remaining lightweight. Further, rammed earth walls enhance thermal performance and contribute to the building’s organic aesthetic. Glass is strategically used to maximize natural light, reinforcing the connection with the environment.

The unique aspect of the Azulejo project lies in its architectural expression and integration of cultural motifs. The feature wall, comprising clay tiles arranged in geometric patterns, exemplifies the project’s connection to traditional craftsmanship while utilizing modern construction techniques. The outdoor yoga spaces, combined with a roof garden, offer unique opportunities for environmental interaction that most wellness centers lack. The design also prioritizes sustainability, evident in its passive heating and cooling strategies, which minimize environmental impact.

The spatial organization within the Azulejo project reflects a clear hierarchy and flow. The central kitchen and dining area act as communal zones, promoting social interaction. Functional spaces adapt to various user needs, allowing for flexible programming that can change with community requirements. Large windows and openings create visual connections to the surrounding landscape, enhancing the feeling of openness within the building.

In summary, the Azulejo architectural design project is a well-conceived response to the need for contemporary wellness spaces that honor cultural history and environmental stewardship. Its unique design features, including the integration of traditional motifs within a modern context and its focus on community engagement, set it apart from conventional wellness centers. To gain a more detailed understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy