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Rammed Earth and Local Stone Structure Harmonizing Nature with Communal Spaces

Authors:
Hanita Bergmann vago, Michael Bergmann Vago, joão roberto monteiro da silva, Eleni Werder
Rammed Earth and Local Stone Structure Harmonizing Nature with Communal Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and local stone, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings while offering flexible communal spaces, serving as a vibrant hub for family and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates rammed earth, enhancing thermal efficiency and sustainability.
02
Flexible modular spaces allow for multifunctional use, adapting to various family and community activities.
03
Landscaping features edible plants, promoting local agriculture and community involvement.
04
Natural stone is used for outdoor patios, ensuring durability and seamless integration with the environment.
05
Translucent materials are strategically placed to enhance natural light while maintaining privacy in communal areas.
The architectural project, known as "The Open House," embodies a thoughtful approach to modern living, focusing on the interplay between community and privacy. This design aims to enhance the experience of daily life for its occupants by integrating functional spaces that not only serve the family but also the wider community. The project serves as a family home and a local hub, catering to various activities ranging from social gatherings to private moments.

At its core, "The Open House" represents a commitment to creating environments that foster interactions while respecting individual needs. The design emphasizes transparency and openness, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating a warm ambiance. This careful consideration of lighting, combined with the strategic orientation of the building, maximizes energy efficiency and elevates the overall quality of life.

The layout of the project consists of several key areas. The central gathering space, featuring both indoor and outdoor components, is designed to accommodate family parties, community events, and casual meetings. The surrounding spaces are crafted to ensure a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors, blurring the lines between private and public life. Distinctly, private suites are sprinkled throughout the design, offering solitude while remaining accessible to the common areas of the home.

A notable feature of this architecture is its material selection. The predominant use of rammed earth not only provides physical durability but also enhances thermal performance, allowing the building to remain comfortable year-round with minimal energy requirements. This material choice is further complemented by the integration of local stone and wood, which contribute to a warm, inviting aesthetic while maintaining a strong connection to the local environment. The design's attention to sustainability resonates through every material used, showcasing an understanding of ecological responsibility.

The architecture also incorporates flexible functional spaces that adapt to the diverse needs of the family and community. For example, the communal kitchen is designed as a hub, functioning as both a space for family meals and a venue for community cooking classes. This versatility reflects the project’s commitment to fostering relationships through shared experiences.

Unique design approaches are evident in how spaces are organized. The architects have intentionally created modular spaces capable of evolving with the occupants' needs over time. This adaptability is a significant strength, as it allows the architecture to age gracefully alongside its inhabitants, accommodating various activities and changing family dynamics without requiring major renovations.

The landscaping surrounding "The Open House" is an extension of its architectural vision. Gardens are thoughtfully positioned to provide edible landscapes, creating a unique opportunity for community involvement and education about sustainable practices in gardening and food production. This emphasis on blending architecture with landscape further solidifies the project's role as a community focal point, encouraging engagement with the outdoors.

Overall, "The Open House" illustrates a pragmatic and inclusive approach to architecture. It is a design that does not merely prioritize aesthetics but places a strong emphasis on the human experience and connection with the environment. For those interested in exploring the nuances that make this project unique, including its architectural plans and sections, a deeper dive into the architectural designs will reveal the careful thought and consideration behind this compelling project. The architectural ideas present in "The Open House" not only enhance the functionality of the space but also promote a lifestyle centered around community, sustainability, and a profound respect for nature.
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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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