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Rammed Earth Visitor Center Embracing Volcanic Rock and Natural Landscape

Author:
Anton Varfolomeev
Rammed Earth Visitor Center Embracing Volcanic Rock and Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth and encircled by volcanic rock, the center invites visitors to engage with the elemental forces of nature while providing an educational space for exploration and understanding.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced rammed earth, enhancing its environmental footprint.
02
Surrounded by a protective embankment of volcanic rock, reinforcing the site's geological context.
03
The design orients southward to maximize natural light while minimizing heating costs.
04
An open layout promotes fluid circulation and provides unobstructed views of the landscape.
05
Incorporates a central technical core to streamline functionality and visitor experience.

The visitor center adjacent to the volcano blends thoughtfully with its surroundings, highlighting the natural beauty and historical importance of the site. Designed to enhance the experience of exploration and understanding, the building engages visitors with the powerful forces of nature. Its design concept revolves around creating a space that evokes contemplation of humanity's relationship with the Earth.

Architectural Form

The center features an open layout that organizes internal spaces into distinct functional zones while centering around a technical core. This setup improves circulation and allows visitors to have unhindered views of the surrounding landscape, fostering a strong connection with nature. Orienting the building to face south maximizes daylight and reduces the need for artificial heating, making the interior comfortable and welcoming.

Roof Design

A pitched roof plays multiple roles, protecting the structure from rain, wind, and snow while simplifying upkeep. This design element adds to the overall shape of the building and helps it fit within the landscape. The roof not only provides functionality but also enhances the visual presence of the visitor center against the backdrop of the volcanic terrain.

Material Utilization

The primary material used is rammed earth, chosen for its eco-friendly properties and ability to use local resources, which keeps transportation impacts low. This method showcases natural textures and patterns similar to those found in the nearby volcanic rock, creating a physical connection between the architecture and its geological context.

To further protect the building, an embankment of volcanic rock surrounds the exterior walls. This offers insulation and durability against weather conditions. A metal frame supports the roof, providing strength and resilience, while stone wool insulation improves energy efficiency.

The visitor center serves as a space for reflection, inviting people to consider the ancient relationship between humanity and nature. The design combines modern elements with a respect for the geological heritage of the volcanic landscape, creating a setting that encourages exploration and appreciation.

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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

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