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 Weatherproof Brass Accents in a Harmonious Mediterranean Retreat

Authors:
Alessandro Mangano, Chanvuth Nareth, Vyarith Tep
Rammed Earth Walls and Weatherproof Brass Accents in a Harmonious Mediterranean Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth walls and weatherproof brass accents, this Mediterranean retreat seamlessly integrates sustainable materials while providing a serene environment for relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for thermal insulation and environmental integration.
02
Features custom weatherproof brass cladding for durability and aesthetic continuity.
03
Incorporates expansive, operable glass façades to enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity.
04
Employs a flexible layout that allows for multiple communal and private uses.
05
Design emphasizes passive solar strategies to optimize energy efficiency year-round.
The project is situated in a scenic area near Spelo, Italy, where it embodies a functional design that merges contemporary architecture with traditional aesthetics. The overarching aim is to create an environment conducive to relaxation and social interaction while integrating seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The architecture involves several pavilions positioned strategically to enhance the experience of the landscape and provide unobstructed views.

The central concept of the project revolves around a series of guest houses organized around a main pavilion. Each guest house is designed to accommodate essential living functions, including dining, relaxation, and wellness. The design promotes an inviting atmosphere, reinforcing a sense of community among users.

Spatial Organization and Layout

The layout consists of multiple interconnected structures, where the central pavilion acts as the main communal hub. This pavilion includes a lobby, dining area, and spaces designed for social gatherings. The architectural design allows for ease of movement and fosters interaction among occupants.

Each guest house features a lounge and kitchen area, with configurations ensuring optimal access to natural light and ventilation. The use of large, double-glazed windows enhances the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing occupants to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a carefully selected material palette that emphasizes sustainability. Key materials include weatherproof metal brass for cladding, natural stone for flooring, and timber for exterior walls. These materials not only enhance structural integrity but also contribute to the aesthetic quality of the design.

Rammed earth walls have been incorporated for their natural insulation properties, promoting energy efficiency. The architectural design makes use of green roofs in conjunction with passive solar strategies to further reduce the environmental footprint. This careful consideration of materials reflects a commitment to sustainable practices while maintaining visual harmony with the environment.

Unique Design Approaches

This project distinguishes itself through its emphasis on indoor-outdoor transitions. Expansive glass facades and sliding doors create a barrier-free flow between exterior and interior spaces, enhancing user connection with the landscape. Flexible spatial arrangements allow areas to serve multiple functions, accommodating a variety of activities and social interactions.

The thoughtful organization of guest houses around a central pavilion fosters a sense of community while enabling privacy where necessary. Utilizing local materials enhances the connection to the site and reinforces the architectural integrity of the design.

Interactivity with the environment also manifests in the landscape design, where outdoor areas are integrated into the overall experience, encouraging engagement with nature.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, explore the project presentation for detailed analysis and visual documentation that encapsulates these architectural ideas. Discover how each element of the project contributes to its functional and aesthetic objectives.
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