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Rammed Earth Base with Galvanized Steel Canopy Enhancing Scenic Views

Author:
Joanne Cuffe
Rammed Earth Base with Galvanized Steel Canopy Enhancing Scenic Views
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A rammed earth foundation forms the base of a tower that utilizes a galvanized steel canopy to channel rainwater while offering panoramic views, serving as an interactive space for visitors within the rural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
A rainwater management system channels water through the tower's structural framework.
02
Rammed earth walls provide thermal mass and seamlessly integrate with the landscape.
03
Sliding glass doors open to enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Folding tables in the upper room allow for versatile usage of the space.
05
A dedicated viewing point offers unobstructed perspectives of the surrounding environment.

The Rain Tower project demonstrates a close relationship with its surroundings, focusing on themes of earth, rain, and agricultural life. It is situated within a rural landscape that invites exploration and connection to nature. The overall design encourages users to experience the environment from different heights, making the structure both functional and engaging.

Structural Composition

The foundation is built from rammed earth walls, which provide strength and blend well with the landscape. This choice connects the structure to its environment and reflects local building practices. Above the earth base, a galvanized steel frame adds stability while creating a contrast between natural and industrial materials. The combination of these elements forms a cohesive design that feels both grounded and modern.

Rainwater Management

A key element of the Rain Tower is its efficient rainwater management system. The building's skeleton works like a large gutter that channels rainwater around the ring beam and directs it down to troughs at each level. This practical feature not only helps manage water resources but also enhances the visual experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the movement of water even during rainy weather.

User Interaction

On the fifth floor, a rectangular room is designed for user interactions. The sliding glass doors open to reveal beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. This transition between indoors and outdoors is inviting. Inside, folding tables offer flexibility for different types of activities, making the space adaptable. A unique viewing point half a level higher allows users to take in even more of the scenery, creating an intimate connection with the environment.

Fine railings line the long landings, providing safety while framing views of nature. As users ascend, the experience is enriched by these visual connections, allowing them to fully engage with the beauty of the landscape around them.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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