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Rammed Earth Walls and Cork Flooring Define a Sustainable Community Space

Authors:
Justin Horvath, Salvatore Oggiano
Rammed Earth Walls and Cork Flooring Define a Sustainable Community Space
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Constructed with rammed earth walls and cork flooring, the design emphasizes sustainability and community interaction in a multifunctional living space located amidst a vineyard and pond.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with 60cm thick rammed earth walls for enhanced thermal efficiency.
02
Features a rooftop stargazing platform designed for celestial observation.
03
Incorporates locally sourced cork flooring for durability and acoustic comfort.
04
Includes extensive green roof to promote biodiversity and reduce heat retention.
05
Designed to foster community interaction through designated social gathering areas.

The Spirala design is a unique effort located in a peaceful area characterized by a vineyard and a pond. The main goal is to enhance community ties while bridging the gap between the constructed environment and the surrounding nature. The overall concept emphasizes creating spaces that encourage social interaction and a strong connection to the landscape, allowing both residents and visitors to feel a sense of belonging.

Concept and Interaction

The design focuses on fostering connections among people, as well as with nature. The layout draws attention to social activities and communal experiences. Carefully placed elements invite engagement and promote a sense of identity within the community. Visitors are encouraged to interact, creating a network of relationships that enrich community life.

Natural Light and Spatial Dynamics

Natural light is a key feature in the design. Large windows and openings allow sunlight to fill the interiors, creating a lively interplay of light and shadow during the day. This thoughtful use of light enhances the overall atmosphere and assures comfort within the spaces. One standout element is the rooftop stargazing platform. This area connects users with the night sky, inviting contemplation and appreciation for the universe.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability plays a central role in the design philosophy. The building uses 60cm thick rammed earth walls, which help with temperature control and energy efficiency. These walls are crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor climate, aligning with environmentally friendly goals. The flooring incorporates cork, valued for its durability and sound-dampening qualities, contributing to overall user satisfaction.

The building features an expansive green roof that aids in reducing heat buildup and supports local biodiversity. This layer not only acts as insulation but also requires minimal watering, showcasing a practical approach to sustainable design.

A notable detail is the carefully thought-out arrangement of the mullions. This feature shapes the connection between indoor and outdoor areas while ensuring structural support. The design allows for visual links to the outside, enhancing the overall experience of living within the space.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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