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Rammed Earth Bricks and Mirror Facades Create Specialized Avian Habitats in a Community Space

Authors:
Nazario García, Teresa Macho, Miguel Cerezo
Rammed Earth Bricks and Mirror Facades Create Specialized Avian Habitats in a Community Space

Project in-detail

Embedded with rammed earth bricks and striking mirror facades, the design cultivates a unique habitat for local wildlife while serving as an engaging community space that fosters a harmonious relationship between people and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 55% rammed earth bricks combined with integrated nesting features to promote local avian populations.
02
Incorporates mirror facades to attract birds, creating an engaging visual environment for both wildlife and visitors.
03
Features asymmetrical forms that reflect traditional agricultural shapes, blending seamlessly with the rural landscape.
04
Includes water features designed to provide essential hydration for wildlife while enhancing the site's ecological value.
05
Design promotes biodiversity by creating specialized habitats within the architectural framework, fostering coexistence with nature.
The Econesystem project represents a thoughtful synthesis of architecture and ecology, embedded in the rich agricultural landscape of Castilian Spain. This design serves a dual purpose, providing a structure that distinctly accommodates both human activity and avian habitats. The concept of the Ecoensystem revolves around fostering local biodiversity while offering a communal space where people can engage with nature and reflect on their relationship with the environment.

At its core, the project emphasizes sustainability through the use of local materials and environmentally conscious design principles. The primary structural innovations include rammed earth modules that are not only aesthetically aligned with traditional Spanish architecture but also functional in supporting wildlife. The bricks are composed of 55% regular rammed earth, 20% integrated nesting features, and 25% specifically designed for bird habitation. This strategic material selection highlights a commitment to reducing the environmental footprint while promoting interactions between species.

The design features a series of organic forms that emulate the natural contours of the surrounding landscape. The connection to traditional agricultural practices is apparent in the structure’s silhouette, which reflects the historic windmills of the region. This connection is key, as it roots the architecture within its geographical and cultural context, creating a dialogue between the past and present.

Functionally, the Econesystem is designed to be more than just a building; it aims to establish a sanctuary for both birds and visitors. The water features incorporated into the design provide essential hydration for local wildlife, while also creating serene spaces for human enjoyment. The reflective mirror facades not only contribute to aesthetic appeal but also entice birds, drawing them into a space intended for observation and appreciation. This unique interaction underscores a core value of the project: to demonstrate how architecture can facilitate coexistence between humans and nature.

In addition to its ecological and aesthetic dimensions, the project reflects a broader social vision. The design encourages community engagement through thoughtful layout and open spaces that allow for gatherings and shared experiences. By creating areas for observation and interaction, the Econesystem invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature, fostering a sense of stewardship towards the environment.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. Rather than isolating structures from their ecological surroundings, the Econesystem integrates elements that encourage wildlife habitation within the architectural framework. This includes innovative nesting features embedded within the rammed earth bricks and careful site planning that respects natural migration patterns of birds. This thoughtful integration elevates the architecture from merely functional to a vehicle for ecological awareness, illustrating how built environments can serve dual purposes.

The significance of the Econesystem lies in its ability to bridge architectural design and ecological consciousness, crafting a narrative that is relevant in today’s context where environmental sustainability is paramount. The project embodies a vision for architecture that harmonizes with the landscape, allowing humans to reconnect with nature while also supporting wildlife.

For those interested in exploring the intricate details of this project, such as architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, further investigation into the presentation of the Econesystem is highly recommended. Engaging with these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural strategies employed and the nature of the symbiotic relationships fostered within this meaningful design.
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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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