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Rammed Earth Pavilion Enhancing Spiritual Reflection Along a Historic Pilgrimage Route

Authors:
Tiziano Meniconi, Roberto Bologna, Giulio Hasanaj, Andrea Sichi
Rammed Earth Pavilion Enhancing Spiritual Reflection Along a Historic Pilgrimage Route
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Crafted entirely from rammed earth, the pavilion offers a contemplative space for pilgrims along St. Francesco's way, merging traditional materiality with contemporary form in a design that reflects the spiritual journey of its visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced rammed earth.
02
Features a central oculus for natural light and ventilation.
03
Designed to enhance spiritual reflection along the pilgrimage route.
04
Cubic form that contrasts with the organic softness of its interior.
05
Serves as both a landmark and a place of rest for pilgrims.

Antinomia emerges from the gently sloping landscape leading toward the city of Assisi, situated along St. Francesco's way. The pavilion, crafted entirely of rammed earth, is a compact, silent cube that fosters a connection to its surroundings and the spiritual journey of pilgrims. The design reflects the historical significance of this pilgrimage route, offering a place for rest and contemplation that honors the life and teachings of Saint Francis.

Architectural Concept

The concept focuses on the relationship between spiritual reflection and architectural form. The pavilion goes beyond being a mere structure; it interacts with the environment and the spiritual experience of pilgrimage. The design emphasizes simplicity and humility, characteristics that resonate with the teachings of Saint Francis, creating an atmosphere that encourages deeper thought.

Materiality

Rammed earth is the primary material used in Antinomia. It provides durability while reinforcing the connection to the land. This choice challenges common ideas about material value, showing that richness can arise from simplicity. The approach celebrates the qualities of rammed earth, allowing for a balance between strength and beauty.

Spatial Experience

The pavilion is notable for its geometric form; the cube shape integrates with the landscape, presenting a solid exterior that contrasts with the soft and inviting nature of the inner surfaces. This contrast creates a setting that invites reflection and quiet thought. A bright oculus allows natural light to fill the space, enhancing the experience and encouraging a connection with the structure's design.

Thematic Exploration

Antinomia embodies a duality that is felt throughout its design. The fullness of the structure conveys a sense of completion, while simultaneously addressing themes of emptiness and loss. This complexity invites visitors to contemplate deeper ideas, connecting the architectural experience with the nature of their pilgrimage.

As light streams through the oculus, it casts gentle illumination on the rough textures of the rammed earth walls, emphasizing the material's tactile quality and encouraging reflection in this quiet retreat.

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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.

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