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Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Circularity and Environmental Restoration

Author:
Nils Dremo
Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Circularity and Environmental Restoration

Project in-detail

Constructed entirely from rammed earth, the pavilion embodies a circular approach to architecture by emphasizing material reuse and environmental restoration, while serving as an educational exhibition space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from locally sourced rammed earth.
02
Pavilion designed for eventual dismantling to restore the site.
03
Educational focus with information boards detailing material history.
04
Utilizes a two-phase construction approach combining excavation and building.
05
Emphasizes a circular lifecycle of materials within architecture.

The pavilion project stands as an exploration of sustainability in architecture. Located within a natural landscape, it serves as a space for exhibitions while illustrating the potential of traditional construction methods. The design embraces the historical use of rammed earth, showcasing its relevance in modern building practices and emphasizing a deep respect for environmental integrity.

Construction Process

The building process involves two main steps: excavation and construction. Initially, the site is excavated to create a defined shape that will later serve as the exhibition area. This careful excavation ensures that the excavated earth can be reused effectively, setting the stage for the pillars that will carry the structure.

Rammed Earth Technique

The rammed earth construction technique is central to the pavilion's design. Material is placed into molds and compacted until it reaches the necessary height. This process is repeated, creating strong columns that support the structure. Once the molds are removed, these pillars stand as robust elements of the pavilion, illustrating the strength and sustainability of rammed earth.

Exhibition Space

Designed as an educational space, the pavilion highlights the advantages of rammed earth. Information boards line the walls, presenting details about the historical context, construction techniques, and benefits of using this material. This aspect invites visitors to engage with the content, promoting a deeper understanding of sustainable practices in building.

Material Lifecycle

After the exhibition concludes, the pavilion is intended for dismantlement, allowing the site to restore itself to its natural state. This process reflects a philosophy of reducing environmental impact while emphasizing a cycle of growth and decay. The design not only showcases human creativity but also respects the land it occupies, illustrating a mindful connection between built environments and nature.

The pavilion embodies a thoughtful approach to architecture, marked by its simple forms and the lasting qualities of the materials used in its construction. It invites reflection on how built structures can harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

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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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