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Rammed Earth and Haciendas Clay Harmony in a Desert Pavilion Design

Authors:
Marc Schulte, Simone Aktan, Elisa Maschin, Sven Schwenke
Rammed Earth and Haciendas Clay Harmony in a Desert Pavilion Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and hacienda clay, this pavilion harmonizes with the arid desert landscape while serving as a cultural hub for exhibitions and community gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
The design incorporates curved forms that mimic the natural landscape and butterfly wings.
03
Features elevated viewing platforms to engage with the surrounding desert environment.
04
Utilizes traditional hacienda clay for its aesthetic appeal and regional relevance.
05
Serves as a multifunctional space for community gatherings and cultural exhibitions.
"The Monarch" Pavilion is an architectural project situated in the Atacama Desert, designed to resonate with its unique environment while providing a space for cultural engagement and reflection. The design takes inspiration from the delicate structure and movement of a butterfly, embodying a harmonious relationship with nature. By employing local materials and traditional construction techniques, the pavilion serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, creating a setting for various activities.

The architectural framework manifests as a series of interconnected spaces, including an entrance area, a main hall for exhibitions, and elevated viewing platforms. Each area serves a distinct purpose while promoting fluid movement and interaction. The entrance features wide arched openings that evoke the wings of a butterfly, inviting visitors to step into the space with a sense of arrival. The main hall serves as the core of the pavilion, designed for gatherings and events, benefiting from the thermal properties of rammed earth, which regulates indoor temperature organically.

The viewing platforms provide vantage points for visitors to connect with the surrounding desert landscape. These spaces encourage exploration and appreciation of the environment, reinforcing the project's objective to fuse architecture with nature.

The project distinguishes itself through its unique design approaches. The use of rammed earth, hacienda clay, and sun-dried brick reflects a commitment to sustainability and contextual relevance. The rammed earth creates significant thermal mass, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling. Additionally, the pavilion adopts a monolithic structure, utilizing twisting forms that replicate natural patterns, resulting in a visually cohesive design that harmonizes with the site.

The pavilion's integration of cultural references and local materials underscores its significance within the regional context. By embracing traditional techniques, the design not only supports environmental sustainability but also honors the craftsmanship and heritage of the area.

To gain deeper insights into the project, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with "The Monarch." These documents provide detailed information about the construction methods and design rationale that contribute to the project’s overall effectiveness and aesthetic quality.
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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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