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Rammed Earth Pavilions with Inverted Conoids for Bird Observations

Authors:
Nazario García, Teresa Macho, Miguel Cerezo
Rammed Earth Pavilions with Inverted Conoids for Bird Observations

Project in-detail

Incorporating inverted conoids and rammed earth construction, the pavilions create a habitat for migrating birds while offering dedicated observation spaces in the ecological landscape of the Castilian fields.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal regulation and sustainability.
02
Inverted conoid shapes support structural integrity while providing visual interest.
03
Dedicated birdwatching spaces promote interaction with local wildlife.
04
Mirrors integrated into the design attract and engage avian species.
05
The project establishes a self-sustaining ecosystem within the landscape.

The project located in the Castilian fields of Spain reinterprets the region's historical landscape through a new structure that serves ecological and aesthetic functions. It aims to create a landmark that stands apart from the flat terrain, showcasing a contemporary identity rooted in nature. A significant component of the design is its focus on enhancing local biodiversity, providing refuge for migratory birds such as swallows and swifts.

Design Concept

The design features standalone pavilions that offer shelter, collect water, and provide shade for local wildlife. These structures contribute to a self-sustaining ecosystem in the area. The architectural forms consist of three inverted conoids that intersect and support each other, creating a unified space for birdwatching while enhancing the overall visual presence in the landscape.

Material Selection

Diverse types of rammed earth bricks are central to the construction. These bricks form the structural basis of the inverted conoids, with some variations incorporating mirrors and features designed as habitats for birds. The use of mirrors introduces an engaging element to attract avian species, promoting a dynamic interaction between wildlife and the spaces created.

Spatial Interaction

The areas within the pavilions encourage visitors to actively engage with the environment. By promoting interaction between architecture and nature, the design allows users to observe wildlife, creating a meaningful connection with the surrounding ecosystem. The placement of birdwatching spaces within the framework of the pavilions enhances the educational potential of the project, enriching the experience of both nature and architecture.

Thoughtful arrangement of habitats and interactive features elevates the user experience while fostering dialogue about sustainability and the role of architecture in rural settings. The design stands as a testament to the relationship between built form and natural processes.

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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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