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Rammed Earth Constructs With Natural Stone Accents for Community Engagement Spaces

Authors:
Nam Dao, Ha Tran, Nghia Dau, Luong Nguyen
Rammed Earth Constructs With Natural Stone Accents for Community Engagement Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed using rammed earth and natural stone accents, the design fosters a seamless interaction with the landscape while serving as a versatile space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing thermal efficiency and aesthetic integration.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, providing structural stability while reducing carbon footprint.
03
Incorporates natural stone accents to blend with the surrounding landscape seamlessly.
04
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing interior space while encouraging natural light.
05
Design includes ecological pathways, promoting biodiversity and community connectivity.

### Project Overview

This architectural design is situated within a forested landscape, aiming to integrate structural elements with the natural environment while enhancing human interaction. The project employs modern construction techniques alongside traditional materials, fostering both cultural significance and a deep connection to its surroundings. Central to the design philosophy is the contemplation of human existence and our relationship with nature, as underscored by philosophical references.

### Materiality and Spatial Configuration

The project emphasizes a thoughtful selection of materials to cultivate a sensory-rich environment. Key components include:

- **Rammed Earth**: Serves as the primary structural material, offering thermal advantages and durability while reflecting rustic aesthetics.
- **Polycarbonate**: Used in certain areas to allow natural illumination while shielding the interior from outdoor elements.
- **Timber and Natural Stone**: Enhance the visual and tactile experience within the spaces, contributing to an inviting ambiance through their diverse textures and colors.

The design features interconnected buildings that promote exploration and movement within the landscape. Gathering spaces are configured to facilitate community interaction, characterized by expansive windows that blend indoors and outdoors. Private quarters provide opportunities for reflection with materials designed to create a soothing atmosphere. The inclusion of nature trails and water features not only reinforces the ecological integrity of the site but also encourages engagement with the environment.

### Engagement with Nature

A distinctive aspect of the project lies in its focus on framing the elements of nature through architectural openings. Each window and skylight is carefully positioned to enhance internal lighting and offer curated views, transforming ordinary moments into significant experiences. This design approach reconsiders the conventional roles of architecture, promoting spaces that emphasize contemplation and interaction instead of solely functional uses.

The endeavor challenges traditional perspectives on human interventions in nature, advocating for an architecture that supports ecological renewal. It positions built environments as active participants in the natural world, fostering a dynamic relationship between humanity and the environment. Through these design principles, the project underscores the importance of coexisting sustainably with natural landscapes.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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