Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Pavilions With Birdwatching Features in the Castilian Landscape

Authors:
Nazario García, Teresa Macho, Miguel Cerezo
Rammed Earth Pavilions With Birdwatching Features in the Castilian Landscape

Project in-detail

Three rammed earth pavilions with integrated mirrors and nesting spaces for birds create habitats that enhance the ecological landscape of the Castilian fields while providing immersive birdwatching opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Three inverted conoids provide unique structural forms for birdwatching.
02
Rammed earth construction enhances the ecological footprint.
03
Mirrors integrated into the design attract local bird species.
04
Dedicated nesting spaces support wildlife conservation efforts.
05
Pavilions collect water and provide essential shade.

The design is situated in the Castilian fields of Spain, an area once marked by ancient windmills now replaced by a contemporary landmark. The intention is to create a new identity within this landscape while promoting ecological functionality through structures that serve both birds and people. These pavilions are crafted as homes for migratory birds while encouraging interaction with nature.

Ecological Integration

The main idea focuses on providing refuge for birds, specifically swallows and swifts. These standalone pavilions are designed to gather water and offer shade, creating an environment that nourishes local wildlife. The design reflects the patterns of migration, aiming to connect the needs of both the birds and human visitors to enhance appreciation of the natural world.

Geometric Composition

Central to the layout are three inverted conoids made from different types of rammed earth bricks. The shapes of these forms work together to create a unified birdwatching area. This configuration allows for practical use while inviting people to engage with the surrounding nature. The design emphasizes the coexistence of human activities and wildlife, merging both aspects within a thoughtful setting.

Material Selection

Materials play a crucial role in this design, aligning with its ecological goals. Using rammed earth bricks sourced from the local area helps integrate the structures into the landscape naturally. Various types of these bricks are utilized: some are fitted with mirrors to attract birds, while others provide sturdy surfaces, and additional bricks create nesting spaces. This careful selection shows a commitment to sustainable practices and ecological awareness.

Aesthetic Composition

The aesthetic approach features organic forms that relate closely to the surrounding landscape and fulfill practical needs. Light and shadow move across the curved surfaces, creating a lively visual experience throughout the day. The mirrors serve a dual purpose; they engage the birds and add depth to the human perspective, encouraging a deeper interaction with the site. The result is a setting where nature and architecture work together in harmony.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy