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Rammed-Earth Shelter Enhancing Cycling Rest with Natural Amenities

Author:
Henri Guérin-dessert
Rammed-Earth Shelter Enhancing Cycling Rest with Natural Amenities
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Constructed with rammed-earth walls, this shelter offers cyclists a tranquil space with essential amenities, blending into the natural landscape while prioritizing comfort and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from rammed-earth, enhancing thermal performance.
02
Includes a dedicated bike repair station for cyclist convenience.
03
Features a chimney to provide warmth during cool nights.
04
Designed with varying wall openings to maximize natural light and views.
05
Accommodates both communal and private sleeping areas to foster interaction.

"Earth of Gold" is designed to support cyclists looking for a place to rest on their journeys. Located in a natural landscape, the shelter combines functionality with a design that respects its surroundings. It serves as a peaceful retreat while offering necessary amenities for travelers on the road.

Design Concept

The main idea behind "Earth of Gold" is to connect the built space with nature. The structure features soft rammed-earth walls, which provide both shelter and thermal comfort. These walls help the building blend into the landscape, creating a visual harmony with the local environment. The choice of material reflects an intention to keep the design rooted in its surroundings.

Functional Amenities

Inside the shelter, several essential amenities are available. Cyclists can find a water fountain, picnic table, bike repair tools, toilets, and showers. Each feature has been carefully considered to meet the needs of travelers. A chimney adds warmth during cooler nights, ensuring that visitors feel comfortable regardless of the season.

Spatial Organization

The design separates public and private areas to enhance the user experience. The ground floor contains communal spaces that encourage social interaction among cyclists. In contrast, the upper level provides sleeping quarters for individuals or small groups. This thoughtful layout addresses the practical requirements of cyclists and fosters a sense of community.

User Engagement

An interesting element of the design is the ladder that leads to the sleeping area. This encourages guests to climb up and enjoy a higher view of the surroundings. It creates a chance to look at the stars through the roof, adding an experience of tranquility. This simple design detail invites a deeper connection with the environment and enhances the overall experience of resting in the shelter.

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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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