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Rammed Earth Structures and Angular Contours Blend Harmoniously With Nature’s Topography

Authors:
Francisco Silva, Barbara Stallone
Rammed Earth Structures and Angular Contours Blend Harmoniously With Nature’s Topography

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and anchored by angular forms that embrace the hillside, the design serves as a tranquil retreat that fosters connection with nature and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing thermal performance and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Incorporates angular wall cuts that create dynamic shadow patterns throughout the day.
03
Designed to optimize natural light through strategically placed openings that connect interior spaces to the outdoors.
04
Features communal areas that encourage social interaction while maintaining individual privacy.
05
Employs a unique blend of natural materials, including local soil and wood, to foster a strong connection to the environment.
The project, referred to as the “Cave,” embodies a thoughtful exploration of architecture that seeks to harmonize built structures with the natural environment. Situated in a hilly landscape characterized by dense greenery, the design aims to foster a connection between the inhabitants and the surrounding nature. This architecture not only serves as a place of residence but also represents a philosophy of sustainability, simplicity, and mindfulness.

In essence, the “Cave” functions as more than just a shelter; it is a retreat that encourages a lifestyle rooted in reflection and harmony with nature. The architecture intricately weaves individual spaces together, creating a sense of community while allowing for personal contemplation. The layout is deliberate, promoting both privacy and social interaction, offering a variety of settings for gatherings, quiet reflection, and engagement with the environment.

Key components of the design include several distinct structures that intersect with the topography rather than dominating it. Employing rammed earth for the walls, the project draws on traditional building techniques that enhance insulation and blend the structures visually with their surroundings. The choice of local materials underscores a commitment to sustainability, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with construction and providing a deep connection to the area’s cultural heritage.

The interiors are designed with a focus on natural light and airflow, with large openings that invite the outside in. These openings are thoughtfully positioned to take advantage of the sun's path, ensuring a bright, pleasant atmosphere throughout the day. The use of wood for flooring and internal finishes brings warmth to the spaces, while stainless steel is used judiciously for functional elements, ensuring durability alongside an aesthetic consistency. The integration of soil from the site within the design also deepens the connection to the landscape, as the buildings emerge naturally from the earth itself.

Unique design approaches are evident in the angular cuts and contours of the walls, which create an interplay of light and shadow, enriching the spatial experience within each structure. This dynamic between interior and exterior is a noteworthy aspect of the project's architecture, encouraging a dialogue between the man-made and the natural. By responding to environmental conditions, such as prevailing winds and sunlight, the architecture facilitates a sustainable living environment that respects local ecology.

The "Cave" project stands as a significant example of how contemporary architecture can emphasize wellness through duality—the intersection of individual solace and communal spaces. The design aesthetic reflects a balance between functionality and artistic expression, creating environments that are as contemplative as they are practical.

Readers interested in this architectural project are encouraged to explore detailed presentations that include architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the design's intricacies and the underlying principles that guided its conception. By delving deeper into the architectural ideas presented, one can appreciate the careful consideration and innovative approaches that define the "Cave," highlighting its relevance in contemporary architectural discourse.
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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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