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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

Project in-detail

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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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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