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Natural Earth Walls and Curvilinear Forms Enhancing Community Engagement

Authors:
Marco Rosati, Giulia Rosati, Lorenzo Rinaldi
Natural Earth Walls and Curvilinear Forms Enhancing Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms and earthen walls create a seamless dialogue with the landscape, fostering community engagement through versatile spaces designed for workshops and gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates earthen walls for enhanced thermal performance and reduced environmental impact.
02
Curvilinear forms throughout the building create a flow that mirrors the natural landscape contours.
03
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed openings that connect interior spaces with the outdoors.
04
Flexible layouts allow for multifunctional spaces, accommodating a variety of community activities and gatherings.
05
Materials are primarily sourced locally, reinforcing the project’s commitment to regional identity and sustainability.
"Signs of the Landscape" is an architectural project that effectively embodies the intricate relationship between built structures and their natural surroundings. The design emphasizes integration with the landscape, using form and materiality to reflect the beauty of the environment while serving practical functions. This project is characterized by its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, showcasing a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality.

At its core, the project serves as a multifunctional space designed to support a variety of community activities. It serves as a venue for workshops, artistic expressions, and communal gatherings, fostering interaction among users. The spaces within are versatile, promoting adaptability to the changing needs of the community. This approach enables the building to become a focal point for social engagement, drawing individuals of diverse backgrounds to connect with each other and the environment around them.

The architectural design utilizes a range of innovative concepts and unique design approaches that enhance its connection to the landscape. Curvilinear forms are prevalent throughout the structure, echoing the contours of the natural topography. This organic design language not only provides visual appeal but also encourages a sense of fluidity between interior and exterior spaces. Users are guided through a sequence of spaces that celebrate their surroundings while providing comfort and shelter.

Material selection plays a significant role in the overall experience of the project. The use of reinforced concrete establishes a robust structural framework, establishing a foundation for the building's integrity. Earthen walls are prominent, integrating local materials and traditional construction techniques to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. This choice not only ensures the building is sustainable but also connects it to the regional identity. Exposed brick adds tactile depth at the base of walls, and natural stone flooring complements the organic theme while ensuring durability.

The building’s design also considers light as a critical element of the user experience. Large windows and strategically placed openings allow natural light to penetrate the interiors, creating dynamic environments that shift throughout the day. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the spaces but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, contributing to the project's sustainability goals. The emphasis on visual connections ensures that occupants maintain a constant relationship with the natural surroundings, fostering an appreciation for the landscape.

Unique design features further enhance the project's appeal. Communal platforms, designed for shared use, encourage gatherings and social events, reinforcing the building's role as a center for community life. Accessible pathways are integrated throughout the site, promoting inclusivity and allowing users to engage with the architecture and landscape without barriers. This thoughtful design approach cultivates a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can appreciate the beauty of the project and its environment.

Overall, "Signs of the Landscape" stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to foster connections between people and their surroundings. The careful attention to materiality, form, and function creates a space that is not only pleasing to the eye but also serves a significant purpose within the community. For those interested in exploring the project further, the architectural plans, sections, and designs offer deeper insights into the thoughtful decision-making that shaped this engaging project. By reviewing these elements, one can gain a better understanding of the architectural ideas that inform "Signs of the Landscape," revealing the profound relationship between architecture and the landscape it occupies.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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