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Rammed Earth Structures with Laminated Timber Integration for a Wellness Retreat

Rammed Earth Structures with Laminated Timber Integration for a Wellness Retreat
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Utilizing rammed earth and laminated timber, the design harmonizes with its landscape to create a tranquil retreat that fosters wellness through intentional spaces for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth construction for natural thermal regulation and durability.
02
Incorporates laminated timber for structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to enhance spatial dynamics and light entry.
04
Includes a dedicated Zen garden to promote relaxation and meditation.
05
Employs recycled water systems for efficient resource management.

## Overview
Located in Amiera, Portugal, "Tres Casas" is an architectural project that emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built environments and nature, drawing inspiration from yoga and mindfulness practices. The design seeks to promote mental and physical well-being by fostering deep connections between internal spaces and the external landscape, while ensuring a commitment to sustainability through careful material and construction choices.

## Spatial Organization
The layout of "Tres Casas" comprises three distinct structures: Casa do Verde, Casa de Banho, and Casa de Referências, along with a Zen Garden. Each space serves a specific function while encouraging interaction with nature and supporting a journey of personal reflection. Casa do Verde features expansive openings that frame views of the surrounding landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. Casa de Banho provides an intimate atmosphere for purification and relaxation, while Casa de Referências facilitates communal gatherings. The adjacent Zen Garden serves both as a meditative retreat and an aesthetic enhancement to the overall composition.

## Material and Sustainability
Sustainability is integral to the project's material selection, which includes rammed earth for thermal mass, laminated timber for structural warmth, and a double-layered metal roof to promote passive cooling and rainwater collection. The interiors benefit from strategically placed glass elements that allow natural light to penetrate the spaces, reinforcing connections with nature. Additionally, recycled water systems are incorporated to support sustainable resource management. This careful selection of materials not only addresses environmental concerns but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere conducive to wellness and mindfulness practices.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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