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 Nestled Among Native Flora With Grated Steel Pathways for an Immersive Visitor Experience

Authors:
Marion Labastide, Manon Lestage
Rammed Earth Structure Nestled Among Native Flora With Grated Steel Pathways for an Immersive Visitor Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and biobased concrete, this visitor center showcases grated steel pathways that weave through native flora, creating an immersive experience that connects visitors with the geological and cultural narratives of the Kvernugeli Cave.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape.
02
Incorporates biobased concrete for sustainable flooring and structural elements.
03
Features grated steel pathways designed to promote flora growth and minimize environmental impact.
04
Elevated pathways provide unique views of the geological formations while ensuring visitor safety.
05
The design emphasizes cultural heritage by integrating educational spaces focused on local geology.
The architectural project titled "A Path Towards the Rock" embodies a thoughtful integration of design and nature, situated adjacent to the Kvernugeli Cave. This project serves as an instructional and experiential landmark, inviting visitors to engage with both the geological features of the landscape and the rich cultural narratives that interlace with it. At its core, the project represents a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural world, emphasizing sustainability and community participation.

The primary function of the project is to facilitate a deeper understanding of the area's geological significance through exploration and education. The architect's vision manifests in an inviting visitor center and café, providing essential amenities while encouraging a seamless exploration of the surrounding terrain. The design notably incorporates various pathways, catering to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, which enhances accessibility and promotes interaction with the landscape.

Key components of the project comprise a series of carefully considered pathways. The first pathway follows the contours of a fissure, allowing visitors to tread lightly on the land and appreciate the native flora that thrives within this unique ecosystem. Another pathway ventures above this fissure, offering visitors an elevated vantage point from which to observe geological layers and textures, fostering a greater appreciation for the intricacies of the site's formation. The pedestrian-friendly path initiated from the parking area facilitates direct access to the visitor center, creating a welcoming entry point into the space.

The building structure itself is designed in a manner that resonates with its surroundings. Its clean, horizontal lines echo the sedimentation patterns found in the nearby rock formations, ensuring the architecture feels both grounded and relevant. This thoughtful architectural approach respects the area's topography while providing functional spaces that encourage community engagement and education about the geological and cultural heritage of the Kvernugeli Cave.

Sustainability is further prioritized through the selection of materials which emphasize a strong connection to the site. The use of rammed earth brick provides a robust structural element that blends seamlessly with the earth, while biobased concrete offers an environmentally conscious solution for flooring and support features. The inclusion of wooden cladding introduces warmth and texture to the architecture, while grated steel pathways minimize site impact and facilitate the growth of local flora.

One of the project's unique design approaches is its focus on ecological stewardship through modular pathways that invite exploration and connection without compromising the fragile ecosystems in the vicinity. Such design decisions encourage responsible tourism and support a sustainable approach that allows visitors to engage deeply with the site. Furthermore, the incorporation of educational spaces helps foster communal ties and sparks conversations around environmental awareness and heritage conservation.

This project stands as a prime example of how architecture can reflect and enhance the relationship between people and the environment, creating a space for education, reflection, and enjoyment. The offering of various architectural designs and ideas not only promotes interaction with the landscape but also encourages a collective understanding of the geological narratives inherent to the area.

For those interested in comprehending the architectural language present in "A Path Towards the Rock," a further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. Delving into elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and the overarching architectural ideas will provide greater insights into the intricate connections established throughout the design. This exploration will illuminate how well-crafted architecture can tell a story of its environment while serving meaningful functions for the community and its visitors.
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