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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

Project in-detail

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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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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