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Rammed Earth Walls and Gabion Landscaping Create a Biophilic Community Hub

Authors:
Paola dalila Martínez chávez, Jonathán noé Salazar anaya, Arely Montes hurtado
Rammed Earth Walls and Gabion Landscaping Create a Biophilic Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and enhanced by gabion landscaping, the design fosters community interaction in a versatile space that adapts to various social functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with rammed earth, the walls provide natural insulation and thermal mass.
02
The integration of gabion retaining walls supports local vegetation and manages runoff.
03
Interior garden spaces promote biophilia and community gardening initiatives.
04
Dynamic light filtration through the roof adapts throughout the day, enhancing user experience.
05
Acoustic design features ensure optimal sound quality for events and gatherings.
The ECO project is a thoughtfully designed architectural initiative aimed at fostering community engagement through adaptable spaces and sustainable practices. The design features a central gathering area that accommodates various activities, encouraging interaction and collaboration among users. Through its innovative approach, the project successfully integrates ecological principles, enhancing both the user experience and environmental well-being.

Space Configuration and Functionality

At the heart of the project lies a spacious central hall designed for versatility. This area is suitable for small gatherings, workshops, and larger community events. The openness of the hall allows for easy flow and circulation, while strategically placed windows facilitate natural light and ventilation. A key element of the design is the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, featuring an interior garden that presents opportunities for relaxation and social interaction. The layout emphasizes community cohesion, providing flexible spaces that adapt to diverse user needs.

Unique Design Approaches

The ECO project distinguishes itself through several innovative design approaches. One notable feature is the use of rammed earth for walls, which offers effective thermal regulation, ensuring the comfort of occupants throughout varying conditions. Additionally, the incorporation of acoustic design enhances the auditory experience, making the space conducive for dialogue and events. The project also includes dynamic light filtration via a uniquely designed roof structure, creating shifting light patterns that enrich the atmosphere throughout the day.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of the project via the implementation of dry toilets and gabion retaining walls, which manage water drainage and promote vegetative growth. The buried garden serves as a communal space for cultivation, highlighting the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community sustainability.

Overall, the ECO project is a definitive statement in modern architecture that emphasizes the importance of community, adaptability, and ecological responsibility. For a comprehensive understanding of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed ideas, it is recommended to explore the project presentation in greater detail.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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