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Rammed Earth Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Curvilinear Community Retreat

Author:
Allison Gonsalves
Rammed Earth Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Curvilinear Community Retreat
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Constructed with rammed earth walls and designed for optimal airflow through its curvilinear shape, the facility serves as a community retreat that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide natural insulation and thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
Operable skylights facilitate passive ventilation and lighting throughout the facility.
03
Curvilinear forms mimic the surrounding topography, blurring the line between structure and landscape.
04
Locally sourced materials minimize environmental impact and support regional craftsmanship.
05
Design incorporates water collection systems to promote sustainability and resource conservation.

This architectural project presents a contemporary design that integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings while emphasizing sustainability and efficiency. The structure's layout maximizes space and facilitates a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor areas. The architectural design focuses on enhancing light and air movement, contributing to an energy-efficient environment.

The project embodies a functional approach, serving as a multi-use facility that accommodates diverse activities such as workshops, retreats, and community gatherings. Key elements include communal spaces that encourage interaction, private areas for individual reflection, and a strong connection to the landscape through strategic sightlines and transitions. The overall concept promotes well-being and fosters a sense of community.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

The project distinguishes itself through its innovative use of materials and a focus on passive architecture. By employing locally sourced granite and rammed earth, the design not only reinforces the aesthetic but also supports regional craftsmanship while minimizing transportation impacts. The structural application of these materials provides natural insulation and regulates indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

Additionally, the design features a roof equipped with solar panels, harnessing renewable energy and integrating sustainability into the architectural framework. Operable skylights and windows facilitate natural ventilation, allowing for an adaptable environment that responds to varying climate conditions. These features collectively embody a holistic approach to building design that prioritizes ecological responsibility while enhancing user experience.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The spatial organization of the project is intentionally designed to promote social interaction and private contemplation. The ground floor encompasses welcoming communal areas, including a lounge and workshop spaces, emphasizing collaboration among users. The architectural plans reflect thoughtful circulation paths that guide occupants smoothly through the facility.

The upper level accommodates private meeting rooms and retreat spaces with expansive views of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the project’s connection to nature. The careful arrangement of these spaces ensures that users can engage with both the interior and exterior environments, promoting an integrated experience throughout the facility. The use of textured materials, combined with open layouts, enhances the overall sensory experience of the architecture.

To explore the intricacies of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, please review the project presentation. Delve into the architectural ideas that shaped its development and examine the distinct features that set this project apart from conventional designs.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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