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Rammed Earth Pyramid Fostering Reflection in a Corten Steel Landscape

Author:
Khalil morad El ghilali
Rammed Earth Pyramid Fostering Reflection in a Corten Steel Landscape

Project in-detail

The rammed earth pyramid, set within a landscape of Corten steel, creates a contemplative space that challenges perceptions of absence while inviting reflection on the remnants of human presence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction emphasizes environmental sustainability and durability.
02
The pyramid shape serves as both a shelter and a visual landmark.
03
Corten steel elements create a contrasting tactile experience with the earthen structure.
04
The design encourages contemplation of memory and absence within the landscape.
05
Strategically located to enhance its relationship with the surrounding environment.

The design centers around the theme of absence in everyday spaces, situated in an environment where the ideals of modernity often contrast with signs of neglect and decay. The concept focuses on the uncanny qualities of these abandoned areas, allowing for a unique expression through both narrative elements and a physical structure. At the heart of the design is a rammed earth pyramid, representing stability and offering a space for contemplation about its surroundings and possible futures.

Rammed Earth Pyramid

The main feature is a rammed earth pyramid. It stands as a noteworthy structure that combines the ideas of permanence and resilience. This pyramid not only provides shelter but also acts as a visual symbol of the potential stories within the landscape. Its design invites onlookers to ponder the relationship between the past and present, establishing a bridge between what has been and what could be.



Material Choices

Rammed earth is chosen for its environmental qualities and its ability to endure over time. This material not only serves a practical purpose but also connects the structure to the earth itself. Corten steel complements the design, adding a contrasting texture that highlights the connection between natural and man-made elements. This combination encourages reflection on how humans interact with the environment while emphasizing the importance of sustainability.



Spatial Dynamics

The design fosters a reflective atmosphere, emphasizing the absence of human activity. This absence encourages visitors to engage more deeply with the stories that the environment carries. The spaces created allow for moments of pause, changing how people experience their surroundings. The focus shifts from just the structure to the emptiness it reveals, leading to contemplation about the history of the site and possibilities for its future.



Environmental Context

Careful consideration of geographical context shapes the project, connecting the pyramid to its natural surroundings. The design reflects a sensitivity to the area, creating a lasting relationship between the structure and the landscape. This integration enhances the project's purpose and encourages a dialogue between nature and built form. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day brings life to the space, inviting ongoing exploration and reflection.

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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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