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Rammed Earth Walls Framing Vineyard Views in a Community Gathering Space

Authors:
Noor Khan, Aarez Ali, Aleena Khan, Huzaifah Fakher
Rammed Earth Walls Framing Vineyard Views in a Community Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth walls that integrate seamlessly with the landscape, the design offers stunning views of neighboring vineyards while serving as a communal space for gathering and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide natural insulation and blend with the local landscape.
02
A monolithic gabled roof allows for expansive views of the surrounding vineyards.
03
Strategic double-height windows frame sunsets and enhance natural light.
04
The design incorporates both communal gathering spaces and intimate zones.
05
Subterranean areas echo the local winemaking tradition and enhance user experience.

The Valley Echoes is located in Assisi, Italy, where it blends into the gentle landscape of the Umbrian valley. The design uses a linear form along with a monolithic gabled roof to connect with local building traditions. By reflecting the surrounding vineyards, the structure acknowledges the region’s rich winemaking culture while creating an inviting space for gatherings and contemplation.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces within the building promotes interaction with nature. Large gathering areas are segmented into smaller, more intimate zones, allowing people to enjoy the sunset from different angles. The mix of covered and open spaces encourages movement between indoors and outdoors, making it easy to appreciate the surrounding environment.

Integration with the Landscape

A significant feature of The Valley Echoes is its thoughtful placement in the landscape. The building is set into the ground, using local soil tones to integrate with its environment. This design approach links the structure to the tradition of winemaking, with subterranean areas that frame views of the evening sky through strategically positioned double-height windows.

Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a focus on sustainability. Rammed earth walls add thermal mass and connect the building to the site. Recycled wood is utilized for columns and windows, highlighting a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. Solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems further enhance the building's sustainability, allowing it to function effectively in its context.

Design Detail

The gabled roof serves as a key visual element, representing local architectural practices while presenting a modern twist. It not only covers the building but also serves as a prominent feature in the landscape, creating a harmonious relationship with the expansive Umbrian skyline. The design captures the essence of the region while offering a quiet space for reflection and community.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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