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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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