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Rammed Earth Walls and Green Roof Create Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Charlene Anguille, Elsa Dejan
Rammed Earth Walls and Green Roof Create Sustainable Community Retreat
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Utilizing rammed earth walls and a green roof, the structure embodies sustainable living principles while serving as a communal retreat that fosters connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide excellent thermal mass for energy efficiency.
02
A green roof fosters biodiversity and minimizes stormwater runoff.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
04
The design incorporates passive solar principles for natural climate control.
05
Community spaces are intentionally designed for social interaction and wellness.

The Elemental architectural project represents a thoughtful integration of nature and built environment, emphasizing sustainability and the principle of ecological balance. Designed as a self-sufficient living space, the project orchestrates a blend of form, function, and natural elements. The architectural design prioritizes efficiency and community, aiming to create a harmonious interaction between residents and their surroundings.

The project's central design is organized around a core structure from which distinct areas designated for various functions radiate, representing the core natural elements: earth, air, water, and fire. This approach allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging occupancy and interaction with the environment. The architecture prioritizes passive energy solutions, ensuring a minimal environmental impact.

Sustainability as a Guiding Principle

The Elemental project is built with sustainability in mind, utilizing materials including rammed earth, cork, and timber sourced responsibly from local suppliers. Rammed earth walls contribute to thermal mass, regulating indoor temperatures and reducing energy consumption. Cork provides additional insulation and structural integrity, while the timber frame construction supports the overall structure and reinforces the project’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Each architectural element is designed to minimize ecological disruption. The inclusion of a green roof system enhances biodiversity, allows for stormwater management, and further integrates the building within its natural context. Solar panels are installed to harness renewable energy, underscoring the project's self-sufficiency. Water management systems designed for recycling and purification are integral, promoting efficient use of resources.

Community and Interaction in Design

The spatial arrangement fosters community engagement. Common areas are designed for group activities such as yoga, meditation, and social gatherings, while providing private spaces that allow for personal reflection. This balance encourages interaction while maintaining individual comfort. Additionally, the design emphasizes natural light and airflow, contributing to occupant well-being through biophilic strategies.

What differentiates the Elemental project from conventional architectural designs is its holistic approach, integrating elements of the surrounding landscape into its framework. The project moves beyond standard architectural practices by encouraging occupants to engage with their environment actively. The combination of the four elemental themes with sustainable materials and community-focused design represents a forward-thinking architectural philosophy.

For a deeper understanding of the design and function of the Elemental architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs presented in the project documentation. Reviewing these elements will provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this unique project.

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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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