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Rammed Earth Structure Enhancing Cultural Exchange Through Natural Light and Community Engagement

Authors:
Lison Martinez, Adeline Nohérie
Rammed Earth Structure Enhancing Cultural Exchange Through Natural Light and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and designed with vaulted ceilings that invite natural light, this cultural hub fosters community interaction and engagement through a variety of artistic and educational programs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth as the primary material, enhancing sustainability and local context.
02
Features vaulted ceilings that improve acoustics and natural ventilation throughout the space.
03
Incorporates large openings for passive daylighting, minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.
04
Designed for seamless flow between spaces, promoting spontaneous community interactions.
05
Reflects traditional Moroccan architectural elements through modern interpretations, establishing a cultural dialogue.
The Cultural Souk in Casablanca, Morocco, represents a thoughtful response to the community's need for a dynamic cultural center that embraces inclusivity and accessibility. This architectural project serves not only as a gathering space for cultural activities but also as a catalyst for social interaction among diverse populations. The design aims to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity while encouraging dialogue and collaboration within the local community.

Functionally, the Cultural Souk accommodates various activities, including exhibitions, performances, educational workshops, and informal gatherings. The spatial organization is intentionally fluid, allowing visitors to navigate between different areas effortlessly. This openness encourages exploratory interactions, mirroring the lively atmosphere of traditional markets, or souks, where people come together to share ideas and experiences.

One of the notable aspects of the Cultural Souk is its unique approach to materiality. The primary construction material is rammed earth, which not only roots the building in the local context but also embodies sustainability. This choice reflects an eco-conscious design philosophy that minimizes the carbon footprint while utilizing readily available materials. In addition to rammed earth, other materials such as wood and glass are used throughout the project. Wood adds warmth to the interiors, while glass enhances transparency, fostering visual connections to the surrounding environment.

The architectural design features several key elements that contribute to its unique character. Vaulted ceilings are incorporated, drawing inspiration from traditional Moroccan architecture. These high ceilings create spatial dynamism and contribute to natural ventilation, ensuring comfort within the building. Large openings are strategically placed to admit natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and promoting energy efficiency.

In terms of aesthetic considerations, the Cultural Souk reflects a dialogue between historical and contemporary design elements. This blending of styles not only honors local heritage but also demonstrates a forward-thinking mindset that resonates with modern users. The project's layout facilitates interaction, reinforcing the importance of community engagement. The absence of doors symbolizes openness and accessibility, inviting a wide range of individuals to explore the space freely, further reinforcing the idea that culture is for everyone.

Sustainability plays a crucial role in this architectural project. The use of local materials like rammed earth speaks to environmental consciousness, while traditional techniques are modernized to address contemporary needs. This thoughtful integration of sustainable practices ultimately results in a structure that is both functional and contextually relevant.

Overall, the Cultural Souk in Casablanca exemplifies an innovative approach to architectural design, focusing on community, culture, and sustainability. Its accessible nature and rich spatial configurations encourage interaction and engagement among users, making it a valuable addition to the urban landscape. To gain deeper insights into the project, including detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that showcase the thought processes behind these architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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