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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 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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