Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Retreat With Catenary Arch and Natural Landscape Integration

Authors:
Sam De keukelaere, Anneleen Heye
Rammed Earth Retreat With Catenary Arch and Natural Landscape Integration

Project in-detail

The use of rammed earth in a catenary arch structure creates a harmonious retreat that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, serving as a meditative space for reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth construction enhances thermal efficiency and natural insulation.
02
Catenary arch design provides structural stability while allowing open interior spaces.
03
Integration of a water reservoir contributes to environmental sustainability.
04
The building features an egg-cave-like structure that promotes meditation.
05
Thoughtful storage solutions are discreetly incorporated into the stair design.

The Wavehouse is designed to promote a sense of calm and connection with the surrounding landscape. Situated in a lush environment, it serves as a retreat for meditation and self-reflection. The concept emphasizes the relationship between organic forms and nature, creating spaces that engage the senses and support individual well-being.

Design Approach

The approach to design focuses on creating an inviting atmosphere conducive to meditation. The building features a unique egg-cave-like structure that is both appealing and practical. As visitors approach the Wavehouse, they traverse a narrow path that draws their attention to the richness of the natural surroundings. This gradual transition encourages users to leave behind the busyness of daily life and prepare for a peaceful experience.

Structural Components

Geometric principles play a key role in the integrity and flow of the space. The exterior of the Wavehouse follows a Gaussian curve, while the interior employs a catenary arch. These forms provide strength while minimizing the amount of material needed. The layout allows for open areas that enhance movement and interaction, making it easy to navigate the space while appreciating its calming atmosphere.

Material Selection

One significant material used in the construction is rammed earth, known as Taipa. This choice reflects an understanding of how materials can impact comfort and sustainability. Taipa provides good thermal insulation, helping to keep the interior temperature stable. It also allows moisture to escape, which contributes to a healthy indoor climate. Using a natural material helps the building harmonize with its environment, emphasizing a connection to the earth.

Functional Organization

Every aspect of the building is arranged with care. The kitchen, shower, and toilet facilities are integrated into the hillside, reinforcing the bond between the structure and its natural setting. Storage solutions are designed to be discreet, with drawers built into the stairs, allowing for easy access to yoga mats and other items. This thoughtful organization supports practicality while enhancing the user experience.

The large deck extending from the zen-room offers a clear view of the landscape, featuring a water reservoir that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The water naturally filters, inviting visitors to engage with this calming element. This interaction with water enriches the overall experience of the Wavehouse, grounding it within the serene setting.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy