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 Construction Enhances Community Integration in Sardinia

Author:
Giacomo Mulas
Rammed Earth Construction Enhances Community Integration in Sardinia

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls crafted from locally sourced materials create a sustainable sanctuary that fosters community interaction and cultural education in Sardinia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls utilize local soil, reducing transportation emissions.
02
The design incorporates large windows for maximizing daylight while enhancing thermal performance.
03
Sustainable rainwater collection systems are integrated into the building's structure.
04
Cultural engagement spaces are designed to host educational workshops and community activities.
05
Materials are selected for their low environmental impact and compatibility with the local ecosystem.
The architectural design project located in Santa Cristina, Sardinia, reflects a modern interpretation of traditional building practices within a sustainable framework. The project is positioned among olive groves, demonstrating a careful consideration of the landscape and historical context. The primary focus is to create a facility that serves educational and community accessibility purposes while respecting the environment and cultural heritage.

The design features a layout that is both functional and instructive, allowing for various uses, including workshops and temporary housing. This multifunctional space encourages community engagement and preserves the historical significance of the surrounding archaeological site. The structure is constructed primarily from rammed earth, a material known for its thermal properties and minimal environmental impact.

Sustainability lies at the core of the project. Key design strategies include a rainwater harvesting system and integrated photovoltaic panels to optimize energy use. The architecture promotes natural lighting and ventilation through strategically placed windows, minimizing reliance on artificial systems. These features contribute to reduced energy consumption and environmental footprints.

Material Selection and Construction Techniques

One of the distinguishing aspects of this project is the choice of materials. The predominant use of rammed earth blocks not only aligns with sustainability goals but also evokes local architectural traditions, creating a cohesive visual language with the landscape. Other materials used include locally sourced stone, wooden elements for interior fittings, and cork panels for acoustic insulation. These materials have been selected based on their aesthetic and functional qualities, as well as their low environmental impact.

The overall construction methodology emphasizes durability and minimal waste, aligning with contemporary sustainable building practices. The design adopts a modular approach, allowing for future adaptability of the spaces to meet evolving community needs.

Community and Educational Focus

Another important component of the project is its emphasis on community integration and education. By providing spaces that can accommodate a variety of uses, the design fosters local engagement and cultural exchange. The architecture encourages educational programs related to sustainability, construction techniques, and historical awareness of the site.

The layout enables flexibility, which is crucial for hosting different activities, from workshops to exhibitions. The aim is to create a lively hub that invites local participation and facilitates a deeper understanding of the region's heritage and ecological practices.

This architectural project serves as a reference for future designs aiming to merge modern technology with traditional values. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of this work.
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