Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

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

Rammed Earth Structure with Passive Cooling and Community Integration

Author:
Tomas Seral Arespacochaga
Rammed Earth Structure with Passive Cooling and Community Integration

Project in-detail

Showcasing rammed earth construction and passive cooling techniques, this residence effectively integrates communal spaces with sustainable materials to create a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide significant thermal mass, enhancing indoor climate stability.
02
Designed with cross-ventilation pathways to maximize airflow and reduce energy consumption.
03
Incorporates outdoor living spaces that blend seamlessly with the interior for communal engagement.
04
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize transportation impact and promote regional identity.
05
Features a basement that houses utility functions, optimizing the use of above-ground living space.
The Compact House is an architectural project designed to integrate sustainability with local building traditions. This design employs traditional earth construction techniques while adapting modern elements to create functional living spaces. The project is structured to minimize energy use and carbon emissions, focusing on environmentally responsible practices that leverage local materials.

The architecture of the Compact House emphasizes efficient organization of space, with clear distinctions between public and private areas. The layout includes a basement for utility functions, such as parking and storage, while the ground floor accommodates essential living areas, including a kitchen, dining room, and lounge spaces. Outdoor areas are incorporated to promote interaction with the natural environment.

Sustainability is a central theme throughout the project. The primary construction material, rammed earth, offers substantial thermal mass, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort. Windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light while ensuring ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further enhances the building's ecological profile.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining characteristics of the Compact House is its use of local materials that reflect the cultural context of its location. The project employs rammed earth walls, sustainably sourced wood for windows, and porcelain tiles that enhance aesthetic appeal while maintaining functionality. The design prioritizes passive strategies for climate control, such as well-placed overhangs and cross-ventilation, which work in tandem with active systems like geothermal heating.

The organization of space within the Compact House reflects a deep understanding of both environmental conditions and social customs. Separate circulation paths facilitate privacy for family members while maintaining the potential for public hosting. This layout is not only practical but also sensitive to the cultural significance of communal living.

Architectural Details and Integration

The architectural details of the Compact House showcase precision in execution. The structural integrity provided by thick rammed earth walls contrasts with lighter elements, creating a balance that enhances its visual appeal. The thoughtful placement of outdoor living areas encourages a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, further emphasizing the connection to the surrounding environment.

Design solutions are rooted in the principles of sustainability and local identity, ensuring that the Compact House serves as a relevant example of modern architecture. By prioritizing functionality alongside ecological responsibility, this project illustrates how contemporary design can align with traditional practices without compromising comfort or style.

For a deeper understanding of the Compact House, explore the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas presented. This examination will provide further insights into its innovative approach to sustainability and modern living.
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 17,363 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