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Rammed Earth Construction Merges With Natural Wood Finishes For Seamless Forest Integration

Author:
Elías Rizo Oroz
Rammed Earth Construction Merges With Natural Wood Finishes For Seamless Forest Integration

Project in-detail

Employing rammed earth and local wood to create a harmonious retreat, the design seamlessly integrates with its forested surroundings while providing a versatile shelter for relaxation and community gathering.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a thermal mass strategy, utilizing thick rammed earth walls to enhance energy efficiency.
02
A unique inverted double fall-down roof facilitates effective water drainage and snow management.
03
Local clay was sourced to create the rammed earth, emphasizing sustainability and regional materials.
04
Interior spaces feature adaptable niches that allow for flexible use according to various community activities.
05
Carefully positioned windows frame views of the surrounding forest, creating a seamless connection between inside and outside.
The project known as "Bunker" represents an innovative and reflective approach to architectural design, deeply rooted in the historical context of Latvia while promoting a contemporary understanding of space and function. This architectural endeavor draws inspiration from the resilience and functionality of World War II bunkers, reinterpreting their essence not as places of confinement, but as modern sanctuaries that foster connections to nature and community.

At its core, the "Bunker" serves as a multifunctional space that adapts to the diverse needs of its users. It is designed to be both a refuge and a gathering point, facilitating various activities while providing shelter. The architectural design thoughtfully integrates spaces that allow for social interaction, relaxation, and reflection. This is accomplished through the strategic arrangement of interior layouts that promote a flexible use of space, including niches that can be easily transformed for different purposes. This adaptability is a key feature of the project, highlighting the importance of versatile design in contemporary architecture.

The material selection reinforces the project’s overall ethos of sustainability and contextual relevance. The primary use of rammed earth as a construction material not only enhances the building's thermal performance but also creates a tactile connection to the surrounding landscape. The thick walls, composed of local clay, offer natural insulation and serve to regulate internal humidity, which is crucial in the Baltic climate. Complementary materials, such as wood and reinforced concrete, contribute both structural integrity and an organic aesthetic that resonates with the natural environment.

A distinctive aspect of the "Bunker" is its attention to sensory experience and engagement with the surrounding landscape. The design incorporates carefully positioned windows that frame specific views, inviting natural light into the interior while facilitating a dialogue between the built environment and the natural world. These thoughtful apertures are intended to draw the inhabitants' gaze outward, encouraging a sense of belonging and connection to the outdoor setting. Furthermore, the roof design, featuring an inverted double fall-down structure, ensures effective water drainage, adding a functional yet visually compelling element to the architecture.

The formal qualities of the "Bunker" are minimalistic yet deliberate, avoiding unnecessary embellishment in favor of functional beauty. The overall silhouette mirrors the contours of the natural landscape, creating an organic blend with the environment. This not only reflects an understanding of local geography but also a commitment to sustainable architectural practices. The project strives to redefine the concept of a bunker as a safe haven, transforming it into a place that invites exploration and interaction with nature rather than isolation from it.

In conclusion, the "Bunker" project exemplifies a thoughtful exploration of architectural ideas that prioritize both heritage and modern living. It presents a strong case for the adaptability of historical concepts within contemporary contexts, proving that the past can inform the present in meaningful ways. By examining the architectural plans, sections, and overall design aspects of this project, readers can gain a deeper understanding of its unique approaches and philosophies. Exploring the "Bunker" further will reveal the intricacies of its design and the thoughtful decisions that have shaped this remarkable architectural endeavor.
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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
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