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Rammed Earth Facades with Natural Daylight Integration in a Community-Focused Residence

Authors:
Lívia Viana, Karina Castro, André Farinha
Rammed Earth Facades with Natural Daylight Integration in a Community-Focused Residence

Project in-detail

Characterized by its rammed earth facades and abundant natural light, the residence affords a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape while serving as a welcoming community home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features rammed earth facades that enhance thermal mass and humidity regulation.
02
Utilizes geothermal heating and cooling systems for energy efficiency.
03
Integrates large glass panels to maximize natural light and outdoor views.
04
Includes a community-focused design that encourages social interaction.
05
Incorporates a landscaped pathway that connects various outdoor spaces.
The Sense House in Sete Lagoas, Brazil, exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture that prioritizes sensory experiences while maintaining a strong connection to its environment. This project embodies the essence of a home designed for both comfort and interaction, exploring how architecture can shape the lives of its inhabitants. The primary function of this residence is to provide a serene living space that encourages a profound connection with nature, making it a sanctuary for relaxation, social interaction, and personal reflection.

At the heart of the Sense House is the concept of engaging the senses in a meaningful way. Each design element contributes to an immersive experience that allows residents to feel their surroundings deeply. The layout of the house is organized into distinct areas, each serving a specific purpose while maintaining an open flow between them. This organization fosters a sense of community in the social areas while providing spaces of solitude in more intimate rooms. The carefully planned spatial arrangement invites movement and encourages exploration, enhancing the resident's engagement with the home.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design philosophy of the Sense House. The use of wood, concrete, rammed earth, glass, and limestone creates a tactile experience that resonates with the natural surroundings. Wood offers warmth and a connection to traditional craftsmanship, while concrete provides structural integrity and durability. Rammed earth adds an authentic, earthy feel to the design, supporting sustainable practices and promoting thermal comfort. The extensive use of glass welcomes natural light and blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the beauty of the landscape. Limestone further emphasizes the connection to nature, seamlessly blending the house with its site and providing a cohesive aesthetic.

One of the most prominent features of the Sense House is its integration with the existing landscape, particularly through the incorporation of the Sangradoro Stream. This natural element not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also adds a unique auditory experience, as the sound of flowing water contributes to a calming atmosphere. The strategic placement of windows and terraces ensures that residents can enjoy views of the stream and the surrounding garden, which play a vital role in the project's design approach.

The pathway throughout the site is designed to facilitate exploration and interactivity, encouraging residents and visitors to experience the various aspects of the landscape. This winding path serves as a connective element, guiding individuals through the garden and drawing attention to different areas of interest, further enriching the sensory experience of the home.

Sustainability is another key consideration in the architecture of the Sense House. The project employs geothermal energy solutions to regulate indoor temperatures effectively, reducing reliance on external energy sources. Additionally, the design embraces universal accessibility, ensuring that the home can be enjoyed by individuals of all abilities.

The Sense House’s unique design approaches demonstrate a balance between aesthetic appeal, functionality, and environmental responsibility. This project invites exploration and promotes well-being, allowing residents to develop a deeper relationship with their living environment. To gain further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and diagrams that elucidate this thoughtful design, readers are encouraged to delve into the project's detailed presentation. The Sense House illustrates how architecture can create spaces that foster connections, nurture the spirit, and celebrate the beauty of the natural world.
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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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