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Rammed Earth Retreat Embracing Nature and Community Wellness

Author:
Verl Arvin Dela Cruz
Rammed Earth Retreat Embracing Nature and Community Wellness
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Constructed from locally sourced rammed earth, the retreat integrates indoor vegetation and ventilation solutions to create a tranquil environment for meditation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth for low environmental impact.
02
Emphasizes natural ventilation through strategically placed ventilation blocks.
03
Features an open meditation area designed for enhanced tranquility.
04
Incorporates indoor vegetation to improve air quality and aesthetics.
05
Promotes aging gracefully in architecture with a focus on sustainability.

The architectural design presents a retreat focused on fostering inner peace through the integration of space and mindfulness. Set in a peaceful environment, the design responds to its surroundings while providing areas for meditation and reflection. It is rooted in the belief that the mind and heart serve as true temples, emphasizing simplicity and kindness to create a calming atmosphere for all who enter.

Spatial Organization

Open and fluid spaces are central to the design, allowing easy movement between different functional areas. A key feature is the open meditation space, which invites quiet contemplation. Complementing this are a tea area and kitchenette that support nourishment and social interaction. Indoor plants enrich these areas, promoting a strong connection to nature and enhancing the overall sense of tranquility.

Approach to Aging

The design thoughtfully considers the natural process of aging for both individuals and the building itself. This focus allows the structure to develop a unique character over time, reflecting a deep connection to its environment. By embracing the concept of graceful aging, the design promotes sustainability and acknowledges the inevitable changes that come with time, both for people and their surroundings.

Material Selection

Material choices play a crucial role in the design, emphasizing ecological responsibility and enhancing the building's strength. Cement stabilized rammed earth is a primary material, sourced locally to support sustainable practices. This choice provides effective thermal mass, helping maintain a comfortable indoor climate. The use of reinforced rammed earth walls increases durability. Additionally, ventilation blocks improve air circulation, while wooden grills add a natural aesthetic that aligns with the overall vision.

Attention to detail is evident in the way the structure interacts with its landscape, ensuring ample natural light and unobstructed views throughout. This thoughtful integration encourages a deeper connection between occupants and their environment, creating a peaceful setting for introspection and personal growth.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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