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Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Community Engagement in a Circular Form

Author:
Peer Röder
Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Community Engagement in a Circular Form

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth, this circular pavilion not only enhances its natural surroundings with an organic form but also fosters community connection through adaptable spaces for gatherings and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion utilizes prefabricated rammed earth blocks, allowing for efficient construction and lower environmental impact.
02
A circular design promotes inclusivity and facilitates social interaction among visitors.
03
The structure features a carefully crafted roof that enhances natural light flow, creating a warm interior ambiance.
04
Community-focused spaces are designed to host educational workshops and gatherings, fostering local engagement.
05
The choice of materials reflects an emphasis on sustainability, seamlessly integrating the building into its natural surroundings.
The "Circular Vault" project presents a thoughtful approach to modern architecture by utilizing rammed earth as its primary building material, reflecting both sustainability and a connection to traditional building practices. Situated in the scenic vicinity of the Baltic Sea in Wismar, this architectural design creates a space that serves multiple functions—community engagement, educational outreach, and a serene gathering place for visitors. The pavilion illustrates how contemporary design can harmoniously integrate with the natural environment while promoting ecological consciousness.

This project represents a commitment to exploring the versatility of rammed earth in architectural applications. By focusing on this material, the design emphasizes durability, thermal efficiency, and sustainability, which are increasingly important in today’s architectural landscape. The choice of a circular form not only fosters inclusivity but also encourages interaction among users, breaking away from conventional rectilinear designs that can sometimes inhibit social connectivity.

The architectural design features a series of graceful curvilinear arches that form the roof and interconnected walls of the pavilion. This thoughtful configuration introduces an organic rhythm to the structure, allowing light to filter through and creating a dynamic interplay between the interior and exterior environments. The design carefully aligns the pavilion's open side towards the south, optimizing exposure to natural sunlight, which enhances user comfort throughout the day. The interior space accommodates informal seating arrangements, promoting a relaxed atmosphere conducive to conversation and learning.

A distinctive feature of the "Circular Vault" is its organizational layout. The circular structure encompasses versatile spatial configurations, which supports various functions from workshops and community events to simple leisurely activities. This flexibility is crucial in fostering a vibrant community hub that can adapt to changing user needs over time. The design actively engages with its immediate surroundings, reinforcing a connection to the landscape while serving as a focal point for community interaction and educational opportunities focused on sustainable architecture.

The use of materials in the "Circular Vault" embodies a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern architectural ideals. Rammed earth not only serves as the primary construction material but also connects the building to the landscape it inhabits, presenting a tactile experience that echoes the natural environment. Additionally, a fleece layer beneath the rammed earth construction serves to enhance the building’s longevity by preventing moisture infiltration, showcasing an attention to detail and practicality in the design.

Through this project, the architects demonstrate unique design approaches that prioritize ecological balance, community involvement, and adaptive reuse of materials. The pavilion acts as a living example of how architecture can respond to pressing environmental concerns while fostering a deeper appreciation for natural building techniques. The overall design outcome resonates with those who visit, encouraging them to reflect on the possibilities of sustainable architecture and the materials that define it.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, a look at the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts will provide an expansive understanding of its structural and aesthetic intentions. Engaging with the details of this design will illuminate how it seeks to contribute meaningfully to conversations around sustainability and community in architectural practice.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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