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Embracing Erosion Through Rammed Earth and Cultural Narratives

Authors:
Alessandro Pennesi, Salvatore Ponzo, Fabio Romenici, Giuseppe Ponzo
Embracing Erosion Through Rammed Earth and Cultural Narratives
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Constructed using rammed earth techniques and inspired by the Great Mother symbolism, the installation invites exploration of natural erosion while serving as a cultural landmark in harmony with its environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each portal showcases a different historical construction technique, highlighting the evolution of earth-building methods.
02
The installation intentionally allows for natural erosion, creating a dynamic interaction between structure and environment over time.
03
Cultural symbolism is central, with the design reflecting themes related to the Great Mother in various civilizations.
04
Materials consist solely of locally sourced earth, enhancing the project's ecological credibility and connection to the site.
05
The absence of maintenance invites continuous change, encouraging visitors to engage with the evolving landscape.

Tellure represents a unique blend of architecture and land art, designed to foster a relationship between human structures and the natural surroundings. The project unfolds with six distinct portals, constructed using various raw earth techniques. Each portal reflects historical building methods, offering a contemporary perspective on the evolution of architecture. Set within the landscape, Tellure serves both as a landmark and a thoughtful exploration of humanity's connection to nature and time.

Architectural Concept

The design centers around themes of permanence and change. Each portal stands as a solid figure, compelling visitors to think about how it was built and its form. The structure showcases a range of construction techniques, progressing from simple to complex forms. This hierarchy emphasizes the importance of earth, which becomes a central focus of the installation.



Material and Technique

Key materials used in the project include rammed earth, cob, wattle and daub, earth bags, and 3D printed elements. These choices have been made to highlight both their historical importance and ecological significance. By using these materials and techniques, the project creates a connection between the past and present, linking ancient ways of building with modern architectural thought.



Natural Erosion

The approach taken allows for no maintenance once the installation is complete. This is intentional, as natural erosion plays a vital role in the project's evolution. Over time, the portals will change, revealing only their framework as they wear away due to weather conditions. This aspect encourages reflection on how buildings and nature interact. It emphasizes the idea that architectural forms are not permanent and must adapt to their environment.



Cultural Symbolism

Cultural narratives are also present in Tellure, particularly through the concept of the Great Mother, a figure found in many cultures. This element highlights cycles of birth, growth, maturity, decline, and renewal. The design thoughtfully weaves this symbolism into the experience, emphasizing the bonds between all living things and the land they inhabit.



Intricate details within the design invite exploration. The differing textures and forms of the portals respond to sunlight and weather. This interaction enhances the experience of the installation, creating a space that evolves alongside its surroundings.

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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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