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Rammed Earth Pyramid with Corten Steel Elements Reflects Memory and Absence

Author:
Khalil morad El ghilali
Rammed Earth Pyramid with Corten Steel Elements Reflects Memory and Absence

Project in-detail

A rammed earth pyramid, augmented by corten steel elements, serves as a poignant reflection of memory and absence, creating a contemplative space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
A rammed earth pyramid serves as a central design element, reinforcing sustainability and durability.
02
Corten steel is integrated throughout the structure, enhancing its connection to the environment.
03
The design incorporates trass-lime technology for improved ecological performance.
04
Strategic openings allow for natural light, creating dynamic shadow play within the space.
05
The overall form creates a dialogue between absence and the memory of human presence.

The design centers around a contemplation of absence and memory in our surroundings. Set in an environment filled with remnants of human activity, the proposal intertwines narrative and physical structure. It invites reflection on how we inhabit and relate to spaces that have lost their former energy. By blending stories of emptiness with physical forms, it offers a deeper insight into human experiences and the passage of time.

Concept and Narrative

The narrative embedded in the design highlights the contrast between idealized modern living and the reality of absence. It challenges viewers to confront their relationship with spaces that lack life and vibrancy. An exploration of memory becomes a focal point, urging a reconsideration of how these spaces inform our understanding of existence. The juxtaposition of emptiness against vibrant ideals sparks a dialogue about our connection to the environments we inhabit.

Structural Approach

A rammed earth pyramid serves as the primary structural element. This form evokes a sense of stability and permanence. Its shape connects the design to historical architectural practices while also projecting a vision for the future. The pyramid acts as a grounding force, emphasizing a relationship with the earth. This choice of structure incorporates a sense of narrative that pervades the entire project, linking physical form to deeper meanings of presence and absence.

Materiality and Construction

Attention to material selection underlines the focus on sustainability. Rammed earth is a key component, reinforcing the connection to nature while providing durability. The construction process involves traditional techniques, such as mixing and ramming, which help achieve structural integrity. Additional materials like corten steel, trass-lime, bitumen, and mortar complement the overall design, ensuring that every element serves both practical and narrative functions. This careful approach integrates ecological responsibility into the design's framework.

Spatial Experience

The project invites an immersive experience within its spaces, where the absence of human presence is palpable. Arrangements are designed to evoke a sense of reflection and introspection. The emotional weight of these spaces enables visitors to connect with memories that linger in the environment. A thoughtfully placed threshold encourages contemplation, prompting observers to consider their own connections to the stories imbued in the space. This engaging interplay between presence and absence ultimately defines the essence of the design, making it a site for quiet reflection on memory and existence.

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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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