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Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Educational Cycles and Sustainable Practices

Author:
Nils Dremo
Rammed Earth Pavilion Emphasizing Educational Cycles and Sustainable Practices
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Using traditional rammed earth techniques, this pavilion creates a cyclical educational space that emphasizes sustainability and the potential of natural materials, serving as an exhibition area for environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction facilitates effective thermal regulation within the pavilion.
02
The design features a planned process for returning the earth to its natural state after the exhibition.
03
Information boards are integrated into the structure to educate visitors on rammed earth advantages.
04
The pavilion structure highlights the reuse of excavated earth as a fundamental component.
05
The two-step building process combines excavation and assembly for environmental sustainability.

The pavilion constructed with rammed earth serves as a testament to sustainable design. Located in an appropriate setting, it functions as an exhibition space to educate visitors about the merits of this ancient building material. The overall design emphasizes a cycle of use, where the structure demonstrates not just the possibilities of rammed earth but also a deeper connection with the natural environment.

Construction Process

The process begins with the excavation of the site, which creates a negative space that defines the future exhibition area. This initial step effectively makes use of the earth that is removed, laying the groundwork for what comes next. The design is clear and structured, focused on ensuring that every piece of earth is put to good use.



Material Application

Once the site is excavated, the earth is utilized to form self-supporting pillars using traditional rammed earth techniques. Layers of compressed dirt are placed in molds until the pillars reach the desired height. The resulting pillars are not only strong and durable but also exhibit the unique qualities that rammed earth is known for, providing both structural support and visual interest.



Educational Function

This pavilion goes beyond mere construction; it serves as a platform for learning. Inside, information boards share details about the history, benefits, and methods of using rammed earth. This educational aspect encourages visitors to appreciate the material while also considering its applications in modern building practices.



Cyclical Philosophy

At the conclusion of the exhibition, the pavilion is designed to be dismantled, allowing the original earth to fill the space once more. This philosophy of returning to nature highlights the project’s respect for the environment. The design approach emphasizes the relationship between the built structure and the natural world, culminating in a thoughtful cycle of construction and deconstruction that reintegrates the site into its original state. The pavilion offers a meaningful narrative about sustainability, blending educational opportunities with a deep appreciation of ecological principles.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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