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Rammed Earth and Corten Steel Retreat With Elevated Terraces Overlooking Natural Landscapes

Author:
Phoebe wai fung Chu
Rammed Earth and Corten Steel Retreat With Elevated Terraces Overlooking Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Elevated terraces crafted from rammed earth and Corten steel provide unimpeded views of the surrounding landscape, while offering guests a sustainable retreat designed to foster connection with nature and each other.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guest houses utilize locally sourced rammed earth for thermal efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
02
Corten steel elements are integrated for durability while blending harmoniously with the natural environment.
03
Elevated terraces provide unobstructed views and enhance the outdoor experience for guests.
04
A focus on native plant landscaping creates an eco-friendly atmosphere and supports local biodiversity.
05
The design encourages communal engagement through shared outdoor spaces and a wine-tasting area featuring local products.
The project, titled "Elevated!", is a thoughtfully designed guest house complex that seamlessly integrates architecture with the natural landscape it inhabits. This endeavor represents a commitment to creating an inviting space that encourages guests to connect with both the environment and each other, while providing a sense of tranquility and shelter. The primary function of the project is to offer accommodation that not only serves as a physical structure but also enhances the overall experience of staying in a beautiful, serene location.

The architecture of "Elevated!" is characterized by its careful orientation and spatial arrangement, which takes advantage of the site’s topography. By designing five identical guest houses positioned for optimal views and privacy, the project creates individual retreats without compromising the communal atmosphere. Each guest house features strategically placed large windows and elevated terraces that invite natural light and provide uninterrupted vistas of the surrounding mountains and expansive fields. These elements encourage guests to engage with their surroundings, fostering a deeper appreciation for the landscape.

Sustainability is at the forefront of the design approach. The use of rammed earth as a primary building material showcases the project’s dedication to environmental stewardship, offering excellent thermal mass and reducing energy consumption. Local bricks are incorporated, reflecting the regional architectural heritage while minimizing transportation impacts. Furthermore, the warm tones of walnut and dark wood used in the interior finishes add a layer of comfort and connection to the site. Additionally, the inclusion of Corten steel provides structural integrity, enabling the building to withstand the elements while maintaining a rustic aesthetic.

Central to the project's design is the outdoor space, which enhances the overall guest experience. The integration of gardens filled with native plants and fruit trees not only beautifies the area but also blends multicultural elements into the terrain, creating peaceful and inspiring surroundings. A small pond doubles as a visual feature and assists with rainwater drainage, emphasizing the project's commitment to environmental harmony. These outdoor areas serve as communal spaces where guests can gather, socialize, and enjoy the natural beauty of the property.

The architectural plans and sections of the project reveal a high level of consideration in layout and flow. The design prioritizes ease of movement between the guest houses and communal facilities, ensuring a logical connection that enhances the quality of interaction among guests. The reception area serves as a gateway to various amenities, including a dedicated wine-tasting room that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local viticulture, as well as a restaurant focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

What sets "Elevated!" apart is its deliberate focus on creating a sense of place. The design concept respects and enhances the existing environment rather than imposing upon it. By incorporating elements of local culture and history into the guest experience, the project fosters a unique identity that resonates with visitors. The careful blend of traditional inspiration and modern architectural ideas results in spaces that feel both timeless and contemporary.

Exploring the project presentation allows for deeper insights into the architectural designs, including detailed architectural sections and plans that demonstrate the thoughtfulness behind each element. The blend of functionality with aesthetic considerations creates a balanced environment that supports the user experience while remaining deeply rooted in its context. For those interested in a closer examination of the architectural vision behind "Elevated!", reviewing the project presentation will provide a wealth of information about the innovative design approaches and how they have successfully come together to create a harmonious guest house complex.
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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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