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Rammed Earth Walls and Oculus Emphasize Contemplation in Natural Landscape

Authors:
Paul Thrush, Francesca Camilleri, Tessa Mccall
Rammed Earth Walls and Oculus Emphasize Contemplation in Natural Landscape
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The oculus at the center and rammed earth walls create a unique meditation space that fosters introspection while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The meditation area features a central oculus that connects users to the sky.
02
Rammed earth walls provide natural insulation and tactile texture.
03
The design incorporates a unique journey that leads users through a descending pathway.
04
Light modulation is achieved through carefully placed timber screens.
05
Locally sourced materials emphasize sustainability and community engagement.

The design is situated within a natural landscape, creating a peaceful environment intended for meditation and quiet reflection. It serves primarily as a space for contemplation, blending sustainable practices with the surrounding environment. The core concept focuses on sustainability, aspiring to create a structure that coexists with nature and remains viable over time without negative impacts.

Design Concept

The journey into this space begins with a descent into the earth, drawing users deeper into the landscape. This movement enhances the connection to nature, allowing individuals to engage intimately with their surroundings. The meditation area features an oculus in its center, connecting users with the sky and inviting them to take a moment for introspection in a calm atmosphere.

Light Integration

Light plays a critical role in shaping the mood within the space. The design carefully controls how light enters, shifting from bright daylight to softer tones that create a serene setting. Natural light filters through timber screens, adjusting brightness levels to fit the meditative experience. This thoughtful manipulation of light prepares users mentally as they enter the meditation area.

Material Use

Material selections reflect a strong dedication to sustainability and a sense of local identity. Thick, textured walls made from rammed earth act as natural insulators while grounding the overall feel of the space. Locally sourced timber adds structural strength and warmth to the design. The use of cow dung mixed with white cement creates a durable earthen floor that recalls traditional building practices. Stone is utilized in gabion walls, supporting effective drainage and contributing to the overall texture of the environment.

Final Design Detail

The interior encourages calm and reflection, with soft light dancing across surfaces. Gentle sounds from the outside world merge into the space, reinforcing a connection to nature. Each detail in the design aims to enhance the user’s experience, offering a soothing environment that invites individuals to pause and find stillness amidst the landscape.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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