Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Cabins Embracing Nature With Flexible Spaces and Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Pippa Farmer, Hugo Lam
Rammed Earth Cabins Embracing Nature With Flexible Spaces and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Rammed earth construction intertwines with flexible spatial configurations to create sustainable cabins that foster a deep connection with the surrounding landscape, serving as intimate retreats for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide excellent thermal mass, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling.
02
Flexible interior layouts accommodate varied uses, promoting user adaptability in space.
03
Large operable glass panels foster a strong connection between indoors and the surrounding landscape.
04
Green roofs enhance biodiversity and assist with rainwater management.
05
Steel frameworks allow for elevated structures, minimizing site disturbance and integrating with the terrain.
The "Vale de Alma" project is a series of cabins situated in the Serra da Estrela region of Portugal. This architectural endeavor emphasizes a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural landscape, offering a space for retreat and reflection. The project promotes sustainability and passive energy solutions while maintaining a focus on user experience and comfort.

The cabins utilize rammed earth as the primary material, providing structural stability and thermal mass, essential for energy efficiency. This choice reflects a local building tradition and enhances the aesthetic harmony with the surrounding terrain. The incorporation of large glass panels creates visual continuity between the interior and the exterior, allowing natural light to permeate living spaces. Additionally, operable partitions within the cabins provide flexibility in spatial organization, adapting to various user needs.

Sustainable features are at the core of this design. The use of a green roof assists in rainwater management and promotes biodiversity, contributing to the area’s ecological health. This green infrastructure aligns with the overall architectural intent of minimal environmental impact.

Innovative Design Features
A notable aspect of the "Vale de Alma" cabins is their adaptive design that prioritizes both privacy and social interaction. The careful positioning of cabins across the site allows for optimal views while maintaining individual seclusion. This strategic layout is complemented by the thermal mass of rammed earth walls that regulate indoor temperatures without relying heavily on mechanical systems.

The project also integrates shading systems to mitigate solar heat gain, reflecting a deep understanding of climate-responsive design. The structure’s elevated steel framework creates a sense of lightness, lifting the cabins above the ground and minimizing site disturbance. This approach contributes to a sustainable footprint while enhancing the natural landscape.

Architectural Innovations in Detail
The architectural design emphasizes user flexibility, with spaces designed to cater to various activities, from individual contemplation to group gatherings. The interior layout allows for versatile uses, empowering occupants to configure their environment according to their preferences.

Material selection is another critical component; rammed earth connects the cabins to the soil, creating a sense of place and stability. The choice of low-emissivity glass enhances thermal performance while ensuring unobstructed views of the picturesque surroundings.

For those interested in further examining the structural integrity and innovative aspects of this project, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available for review. These documents provide insights into the thought processes behind material selection, spatial configuration, and design methodologies. Explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of these architectural ideas and to appreciate the careful execution evident in the "Vale de Alma" cabins.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy