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Rammed Earth Pavilion Embracing Spiral Form and Community Engagement in Jeddah

Author:
Sunjae Kim
Rammed Earth Pavilion Embracing Spiral Form and Community Engagement in Jeddah

Project in-detail

With its unique spiral form crafted from sustainable rammed earth, this pavilion in Jeddah fosters community engagement while serving as an empowering space for women's rights.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's spiral design enhances airflow and natural ventilation, optimizing comfort in Jeddah's hot climate.
02
Constructed primarily from rammed earth, the design emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency while integrating local building traditions.
03
Cultural motifs inspired by traditional Islamic architecture are subtly incorporated into the structure, connecting the pavilion to its heritage.
04
Dedicated exhibition spaces within the pavilion are designed specifically for showcasing art and discussions on women's rights.
05
The project fosters community interaction through its open layout, promoting social engagement and empowerment for women in the area.
The architectural project known as "The Shelter of Liberty" is a thoughtful and well-conceived pavilion located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This design serves a dual purpose: it is a physical structure that provides a meaningful space for women while also representing a broader societal narrative regarding women’s rights in the region. At its core, the pavilion embodies the ideals of empowerment, community, and cultural resonance, effectively intertwining architecture and social engagement.

The pavilion is designed with an innovative spiral form that enhances movement and interaction among its users. This circular design is not only visually appealing but also functional, promoting an open and inclusive environment that invites women to partake in various activities. The layout addresses the need for both communal and personal spaces, allowing for gatherings, exhibitions, and quiet reflection—elements crucial for fostering a sense of belonging.

From a material standpoint, the pavilion primarily utilizes rammed earth, a sustainable choice that aligns well with both environmental goals and the local context. Rammed earth provides excellent thermal mass and insulation, making it particularly suitable for Jeddah's hot climate. The warm, earthy tones of this material help the pavilion blend seamlessly into its surroundings while offering a tactile connection to the site. Complementing the rammed earth, timber elements are integrated into the design, enhancing structural stability and adding a natural aesthetic that softens the overall appearance of the pavilion.

The design of "The Shelter of Liberty" incorporates features aimed at improving user experience, such as natural ventilation systems that promote air circulation throughout the space, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical cooling solutions. This attention to detail in addressing climatic conditions underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and user comfort.

Culturally, the pavilion draws on traditional Islamic architectural motifs, which are reinterpreted to align with contemporary values. The inclusion of design motifs inspired by the local heritage, such as the date palm, symbolizes growth and connection to the community's roots. This unique approach to blending traditional and modern elements emphasizes the project’s role as a cultural landmark within the evolving narrative of women's rights.

"The Shelter of Liberty" stands out not only for its architectural qualities but also for its deep connections to community needs. The pavilion is positioned to serve as a venue for discussions around women's empowerment, celebrating cultural expression, and providing a safe haven for women to gather. The design encourages engagement and interaction, effectively making it a place where dialogue can flourish.

This architectural project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to design that prioritizes social connection and cultural significance. It showcases an understanding of local context, user experience, and sustainability that aligns with modern architectural practices while respecting tradition. Readers interested in gaining further insights into this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented in its detailed documentation to better appreciate the thoughtful nuances and comprehensive design strategies that characterize "The Shelter of Liberty."
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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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