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Rammed Earth Walls and Photovoltaic Solutions in Sustainable Community Housing

Rammed Earth Walls and Photovoltaic Solutions in Sustainable Community Housing
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With rammed earth walls that enhance thermal mass and integrated photovoltaic systems, the design provides a sustainable housing solution for a transient population in the heart of Veracruz’s coffee plantations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Integrated photovoltaic systems support off-grid living.
03
Large windows optimize natural ventilation and daylighting.
04
Community spaces encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Rainwater harvesting tanks are incorporated for effective water management.

### Project Overview

Situated on coffee plantations in Veracruz, Mexico, the design aims to deliver affordable and sustainable housing tailored to a migrant population. Given the significant demand for off-grid housing in the region, this initiative innovatively combines prefabricated components with traditional construction techniques. The outcome emphasizes low carbon emissions while ensuring optimal thermal comfort and structural integrity.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The floor plan of the housing units showcases an intelligent distribution of spaces. Communal areas, including dining and living rooms, are designed to promote social interaction among residents, while private spaces, such as bedrooms, ensure comfort and privacy. A stepped entryway enhances accessibility and creates an inviting outdoor area that encourages community gatherings. This layout not only facilitates daily living but also strengthens social bonds within the migrant population.

### Material and Environmental Strategies

The project employs a diverse palette of materials, focusing on sustainability and functionality. Locally sourced timber and rammed earth form the primary structural components, complemented by prefabricated QuadCore panels that offer superior thermal insulation. Photovoltaic cells are integrated into the roofing system to harness solar energy, while rainwater harvesting systems utilizing 2000-litre slimline tanks support effective water management. The design incorporates thermal mass walls and cross-ventilation strategies to enhance indoor comfort and minimize dependence on mechanical cooling systems. These strategies collectively establish a resilient and resource-efficient housing solution.

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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.

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