Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rammed Earth Walls and Terracotta Roofs Enhance a Wellness Retreat Amidst Mountainous Landscapes

Author:
Jonathan Howse
Rammed Earth Walls and Terracotta Roofs Enhance a Wellness Retreat Amidst Mountainous Landscapes

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls and a terracotta roof blend seamlessly with the natural features of the mountainous site, creating a serene wellness retreat designed to promote community interaction and connection to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide exceptional thermal mass and natural insulation.
02
Terracotta roofing tiles blend with the mountainous environment for aesthetic cohesion.
03
An internal courtyard enhances natural light and promotes cross-ventilation.
04
Open-air showers create a direct connection to the natural landscape.
05
The design incorporates rainwater harvesting for sustainable resource management.
The project "Da Natureza (Of Nature)" represents an architectural design that seeks to establish a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. It is situated in a mountainous region, where the site’s natural topography and ecosystem greatly influence the overall design approach. This project is intended to serve as a multifunctional space for wellness, community interaction, and individual reflection, encapsulating a holistic philosophy towards living in synergy with nature.

The architectural design employs a range of locally sourced materials, emphasizing sustainability while enhancing the sensory experience within the space. Key structural elements include rammed earth walls, locally sourced timber cladding, and terracotta roofing, all chosen for their aesthetic qualities and environmental performance. The project’s layout promotes natural light and ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency and the comfort of occupants.

Architectural Integration with Landscape

What distinguishes "Da Natureza" from typical architectural projects is its extensive integration with the landscape. The design leverages the site’s natural elevations, minimizing alterations to the topography. An internal courtyard directs light and air flow into the interior spaces, encouraging interaction between indoors and outdoors. The careful selection of materials, such as terracotta pavers and Colombian earth plaster, not only reflects the natural colors and textures of the surroundings but also reinforces the structure’s connection to its context.

Innovative functional spaces include a dedicated yoga shala with expansive glazing that frames views of the landscape, allowing for a tranquil yet immersive experience. Open-air showers and strategically placed terraces create additional opportunities for engagement with the environment. Passive design elements, such as rainwater collection and orientation strategies, support ecological resilience and reduce operational costs.

Sustainable Design Principles

The project exemplifies sustainable design principles through its thoughtful integration of passive systems and environmentally responsible materials. The use of rammed earth provides thermal mass, enhancing energy performance while maintaining comfort levels throughout different seasons. The design encourages low-impact living by adopting renewable resources, such as natural light, while minimizing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Open spaces and communal areas facilitate social interaction and foster a sense of community, aligning with the growing trend towards wellness-centered architectural solutions.

The architecture of "Da Natureza" not only fulfills its functional requirements but also serves as a modeled approach for future projects that aim to bridge the gap between human habitation and natural landscapes. For a deeper understanding of its design strategies and architectural ideas, the project presentation offers detailed insights into architectural plans, sections, and designs. Exploring these elements will provide valuable context and facilitate further discussion on contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability and community engagement.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy