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Rammed Earth Structures Embracing Bamboo Serenity in A Circular Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Maria Gabriela Sanz Rodriguez, Gabriel Jesús Luque Cáceres, Benjamín Abel Guillen Zubiaga, Ronald Soto Mendieta
Rammed Earth Structures Embracing Bamboo Serenity in A Circular Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and bamboo, the circular retreat harmoniously integrates wellness facilities with the surrounding landscape, offering a space for reflection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced rammed earth and bamboo.
02
Features a circular design that promotes unobstructed views of the landscape.
03
Incorporates a rainwater management system integrated into the overall design.
04
Utilizes passive solar principles to enhance energy efficiency.
05
Landscaped gardens designed to promote local biodiversity and natural habitat.

## Overview

Located within a natural landscape, the project titled "Contemplation in Tension" seeks to integrate architecture with its surroundings, focusing on both functionality and aesthetic coherence. Designed as a ring-shaped structure, the building facilitates movement and exploration, encouraging occupants to engage with the environment while promoting a connection between the interior space and the exterior landscape.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

Central to the design is a guest house that includes living spaces, dining areas, and spa facilities. The plan features distinct zones that are interconnected, maximizing natural light and views of the outdoors. Spa facilities, including treatment and relaxation rooms, are strategically designed to enhance user well-being, creating areas for both physical rejuvenation and mental contemplation. Outdoor elements, such as gardens and water features, complement the interior layout, facilitating a dynamic interaction between built and natural environments.

## Materiality and Sustainable Practices

The construction employs a selection of materials that emphasize sustainability and cultural relevance. Key components include rammed earth for insulation, bamboo and straw for structural integrity, and concrete for durability. Expansive glass windows enable abundant natural light, while wood adds warmth and intimacy to interior spaces. Sustainable strategies are integral to the project, featuring solar panels positioned for optimal energy efficiency, a rainwater collection system for wastewater management, and organic composting to minimize waste. These materials and practices collectively contribute to a reduced environmental impact, demonstrating a commitment to ecological sensibility.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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