Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Rammed Earth Structure Embracing Community Engagement Through Local Materials

Author:
Ana alexandra Tiriba
Rammed Earth Structure Embracing Community Engagement Through Local Materials

Project in-detail

Rooted in local soil and constructed from rammed earth, the pavilion serves as a vibrant educational hub that fosters community engagement through sustainable practices and hands-on workshops.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion is constructed entirely from locally sourced rammed earth, emphasizing sustainable material use.
02
Curvilinear walls enhance both aesthetics and thermal performance, promoting natural ventilation throughout the space.
03
Interactive workshops allow participants to engage directly with earth-based construction methods.
04
The design incorporates recycled LECA blocks, contributing to the building’s lightweight structure and eco-friendly approach.
05
Strategically placed openings maximize natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere while minimizing energy consumption.
The Terra Pavilion is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in Gothenburg, Sweden, that exemplifies contemporary sustainable building practices. This project leverages the concept of earth as a primary construction material, reflecting not only innovative architectural ideas but also a deep respect for the environment. Through its use of rammed earth, the pavilion serves both as an exhibition space and a platform for community engagement, illustrating how urban settings can intertwine with natural elements.

Functionally, the Terra Pavilion operates as an educational hub where visitors can explore the applications and benefits of earth-based construction. It invites participation through workshops and exhibitions that focus on sustainable building techniques, particularly rammed earth. This approach emphasizes hands-on learning and community involvement, allowing individuals to appreciate the connection between architecture and local resources.

The design of the Terra Pavilion is characterized by its gentle, curvilinear forms that soften its presence in the urban landscape. These flowing walls not only create a visually appealing silhouette but also encourage tactile engagement, inviting visitors to touch and experience the raw earth material. The pavilion’s structure is purposefully thick, with walls measuring around 30 cm, a design choice that enhances both thermal performance and aesthetic appeal by showcasing the inherent qualities of the rammed earth.

The architectural design skillfully integrates natural light through strategically placed openings, enhancing the internal atmosphere while providing a sheltering canopy. This consideration for light and space fosters a welcoming environment conducive to exploration and learning. Additionally, the use of light wood in the roofing structure provides protection to the earth walls while maintaining a lightweight balance, further emphasizing the project’s sustainable ethos.

A unique aspect of the Terra Pavilion is its grounding in local context, particularly through the use of locally sourced materials. The rammed earth not only embodies environmental sustainability but also resonates with the geographical identity of Gothenburg, aligning the architecture with its surroundings. This approach serves as a dialogue between the architectural project and the landscape it inhabits, enhancing the connectivity between humans and nature.

In terms of architectural details, the combination of recycled LECA blocks adds to the structure’s sustainability narrative. These lightweight elements contribute to the overall integrity of the building while ensuring minimal ecological impact. The thoughtful integration of these materials showcases an innovative approach to contemporary architectural practice, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness in design.

Overall, the Terra Pavilion stands as a model for future architectural endeavors focused on sustainable practices and community participation. Its emphasis on earth as a primary material not only challenges conventional construction methods but also encourages a renewed appreciation for the environment. To delve deeper into the intricacies of this project, such as the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the available project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its features and conceptual underpinnings. This exploration will provide valuable insights into how architecture can respond to contemporary challenges while fostering connection and learning within the community.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16544 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