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Rammed Earth Structures with Rainwater Gardens in Drought-Resilient Community

Author:
Oliver Bilak
Rammed Earth Structures with Rainwater Gardens in Drought-Resilient Community
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Rammed earth forms create a drought-resilient community with integrated rainwater gardens, designed to foster social interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth serves as the primary structural material, enhancing thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Rainwater collection systems channel water for rooftop vegetable gardening, promoting sustainability.
03
Communal areas include gardens and a fire pit, designed to encourage social interaction among residents.
04
Large openings on the northern facade provide panoramic views while minimizing heat gain.
05
Recycled bricks from an existing building are integrated into the new structure, supporting material reuse.

The Tilli Vinehouses project is located in the Perugia region, an area facing significant environmental challenges, particularly due to drought. This design aims to create a connection between the buildings and the surrounding landscape, emphasizing sustainability and practicality. The concept focuses on balancing natural elements with the needs of the residents, while also employing strategies that reduce energy use and encourage a sustainable way of living.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design are four key elements necessary for growing organic vines: earth, water, sunshine, and people. These elements are integrated into the structure, demonstrating a commitment to organic principles in a modern context. The use of rammed earth connects the buildings to the soil, while recycled bricks from an old house illustrate the importance of reusing materials. This thoughtful approach promotes environmental responsibility.

Water Management

Water management is a vital aspect of the design. A rainwater collection system gathers water from the roof and stores it in a tank. This collected water can be used for growing vegetables on the rooftop garden. This method supports water conservation efforts and promotes local food production. It also strengthens the connection between residents and their environment.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the spaces within the development balances private and shared areas. Communal features include gardens, a swimming pool, and a fire pit, which encourage interaction among residents. Additionally, a restaurant is located at the entrance to serve both residents and visitors, highlighting the community-oriented nature of the design.

Architectural Details

The design incorporates specific elements that respond to the local climate. To minimize direct sunlight, a secondary roof structure has strategic openings made with vine barrels. This allows light and air to enter the living spaces while reducing the dependence on cooling systems. The overall form of the buildings creates a visual link with the surrounding vineyards and hills, resulting in an approachable design that fits well within its context.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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