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Rammed Earth And Local Timber Structure Offering Unparalleled Views Of Wetland Ecosystems

Author:
Supassara Sonthinane
Rammed Earth And Local Timber Structure Offering Unparalleled Views Of Wetland Ecosystems

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced rammed earth and timber, the structure seamlessly integrates with the wetland landscape, serving as a community observation point that enhances ecological awareness and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for structural integrity and thermal performance.
02
Incorporates cantilevered layers to enhance viewing opportunities of the wetland ecosystem.
03
Features a transparent façade that maximizes natural light and sightlines.
04
Integrates interactive pathways designed for community engagement and accessibility.
05
Landscaped with native flora to support local biodiversity and ecological education.

### Overview
Located on the northern edge of Big Slough near Silver Lake in South Dakota, the Sloughscape Watchpoint is a multifunctional tower designed as both a vantage point and a catalyst for community and ecological integration. The structure aims to activate the surrounding ecological zones, effectively blending residential, commercial, and natural landscapes into a cohesive experience for visitors.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction
The design forms a unique spatial configuration inspired by the site's topography and wetland character. The tower's 14.5-meter height features a series of stacked, cantilevered layers, providing varied perspectives that enhance user engagement. Internal pathways are crafted to guide visitors through the landscape, leading to distinct experiences such as expansive wetland views and scenic overlooks. This careful spatial design fosters a deeper connection to the environment and enhances community interaction.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and local resource utilization. Rammed earth provides structural strength and insulation, while a concrete foundation ensures durability. The integration of glass maximizes transparency and natural lighting, and wood panels are used internally to create warmth. Additionally, the project prioritizes ecological restoration through the use of native flora, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the local habitat. These design choices contribute to a minimized environmental impact and emphasize a holistic approach to architecture.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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