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Layers of Rammed Earth Forming a Monolithic Connection to Water and Landscape

Authors:
Maurício Addor Neto, Bruno Futema, Gabriel Da Silva Martinez Ribeiro, Breno Quaioti
Layers of Rammed Earth Forming a Monolithic Connection to Water and Landscape
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Rammed earth layers create a monolithic structure that interacts with flowing water and the surrounding landscape, serving as an engaging space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth layers are used to create structural depth and texture.
02
Water flows from the base, enhancing the interaction with the landscape.
03
The monolithic design fosters a continuous dialogue between natural and built elements.
04
The project highlights the ambiguity of natural versus artificial through its materials.
05
Visitors are invited to engage with the sensory experience of earth and water.

The design emphasizes the use of rammed earth as a primary material and integrates closely with its natural surroundings. The structure features a large monolith composed of three walls, showcasing the characteristics of earth while creating a strong visual presence. The approach highlights not only the material itself but also its connection to the landscape, inviting interaction with the environment.

Material Exploration

At the core of this design is the layering technique applied to rammed earth. This method allows for the variations in color, texture, and density to be visible. Each layer presents a unique aspect of the material, fostering a relationship between the structure and its geological context. The careful arrangement of these layers contributes to both aesthetics and stability, creating a thoughtful response to the site.



Water Interaction

Water is an important element in the design, flowing from the base of the monolith. This movement of water transforms the ground around it, mixing with earth to create a blend of mud. The interaction encourages people to engage with the space more intimately. As visitors approach the structure, the combined sensory experience of earth and water invites them to explore the relationship between natural and constructed elements.



Conceptual Ambiguity

The project prompts reflection on the boundaries between natural and artificial components. By highlighting this ambiguity, it raises questions about how raw materials are transformed into forms we can inhabit. The layering not only emphasizes the physical qualities of the materials involved but also suggests a narrative of time and change that resonates with the environment.



The monolith stands as a clear representation of the connection between earth and water. Its design goes beyond aesthetics, encouraging visitors to engage with the landscape and experience the natural elements in a meaningful way. The structure becomes an integral part of the environment, promoting a relationship that is both dynamic and enduring.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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