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Rammed Earth Walls and Vegetated Roofs Create Community-Centric Living Spaces

Authors:
Justin Horvath, Salvatore Oggiano
Rammed Earth Walls and Vegetated Roofs Create Community-Centric Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Emphasizing rammed earth construction and a lush green roof, this community-focused retreat redefines living in harmony with nature to foster social interaction and engagement among its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for improved thermal efficiency and environmental integration.
02
Incorporates a lush green roof that supports biodiversity and enhances rainwater management.
03
Features communal spaces designed for social interaction, promoting a sense of community among residents.
04
Integrates traditional azulejos tiles, celebrating local craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
05
Optimizes natural light through strategically placed oculi, minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.
The Spirala Community Home project is a carefully considered architectural design that aims to nurture a sense of connection among its residents while fostering a strong bond with the surrounding natural landscape. This innovative project embodies a harmonious relationship between built environments and ecological systems, drawing inspiration from the local geography characterized by rolling hills and abundant greenery.

The primary function of the Spirala Community Home is to serve both as a residential dwelling and a communal space, facilitating social interaction among residents. This dual purpose is reflected in the architectural layout, which integrates private living quarters with shared facilities designed for group activities. The project thoughtfully incorporates communal dining areas, social gathering spaces, and even outdoor venues that invite residents to engage with one another and with nature. This design approach emphasizes the importance of community in enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Unique aspects of the design are apparent in its spatial organization and use of materials. Central to the architectural concept is the circular form, which symbolizes unity and wholeness, inviting occupants to consider their role in both the community and the broader environment. The layout is intentionally created to promote fluid circulation, allowing residents to move easily between private and communal spaces while encouraging serendipitous interactions. This thoughtful arrangement fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, where individuals feel encouraged to participate and collaborate.

Materiality plays a significant role in the architectural expression of Spirala. The project employs rammed earth for constructing robust walls that not only provide thermal stability but also blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. This choice highlights a commitment to sustainability, as rammed earth is an energy-efficient material that minimizes the environmental footprint of the construction. Moreover, the inclusion of cork flooring offers both durability and acoustic comfort, contributing to a warm and inviting interior environment.

Another innovative element of the design is the implementation of an extensive green roof, which serves multiple purposes. This feature not only improves insulation for the building but also captures rainwater, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity. The roof structure is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the visual connection between the home and its natural setting. Additionally, the rooftop oculus is an imaginative design feature that encourages residents to engage with the night sky, providing opportunities for contemplation and connection to the cosmos.

The use of traditional Portuguese azulejos as decorative ceramic tiles further enriches the architectural narrative, linking the project to local craftsmanship and cultural heritage. By incorporating these elements into the design, Spirala not only honors regional history but also elevates the aesthetic quality of the spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects the character of the area.

Through its innovative design, the Spirala Community Home offers a model for sustainable living that prioritizes social interaction and environmental stewardship. The architectural strategies employed in this project facilitate an immersive experience within the surroundings, encouraging residents to live in harmony with nature while forming strong community ties. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that define the Spirala Community Home, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail.
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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
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