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Rammed Earth Walls With Barrel Vault Roofs in a Community-Focused Design

Authors:
Marco Ciardiello, Matteo Budroni, Anna Firinu, Federica Marchesi
Rammed Earth Walls With Barrel Vault Roofs in a Community-Focused Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from rammed earth and accentuated with a barrel vault roof, the design fosters communal interaction through its multipurpose spaces, seamlessly connecting residents to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
Features a barrel vault roof that optimizes acoustics and natural lighting.
03
Design integrates community-oriented multipurpose spaces for social engagement.
04
Large glass panels create seamless transitions between interior and landscape.
05
Utilizes passive solar heating principles for minimal energy reliance.
The architectural project "Berço no Verde" (Cradle in the Green) is a sustainable design initiative located in Portugal, focused on creating a coherent relationship between built environments and natural landscapes. This project aims to support communal living while being environmentally conscious. The design encapsulates principles of community interaction and ecological preservation in its form and function.

The "Berço no Verde" project serves multiple purposes, including a communal gathering space and private accommodation for residents. The structure is arranged to facilitate a strong connection to the outdoors, with carefully planned open spaces allowing for collaboration and social engagement amongst its users. The design emphasizes inclusivity, promoting interactions that foster a sense of belonging and community.

Spatially, the building features an open-plan layout that maximizes natural light and air circulation. Key areas include a multipurpose room designed for community events, a kitchen and dining room to encourage shared experiences, and private guest suites that offer comfort while maintaining a connection to communal activities. The design strategically incorporates outdoor areas that invite users to engage with the surrounding landscape, enhancing overall user experience.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design of "Berço no Verde" distinguishes itself through the incorporation of a modern interpretation of traditional forms, such as the barrel vault. This design choice not only pays homage to regional architectural norms but also optimizes interior acoustics and spatial dynamics. The use of natural materials, including rammed earth and terracotta bricks, underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability while enhancing thermal performance.

Rammed earth serves as the primary material for walls, providing structural integrity while contributing to environmental sustainability. The roof, constructed of terracotta bricks, minimizes heat absorption, ensuring energy efficiency. To enhance the building’s connection to its environment, large glass panels are integrated into the design, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding greenery.

Sustainable Features

The project integrates various sustainable features, emphasizing energy efficiency and ecological awareness. The positioning of the building is optimized to harness natural light, and the utilization of passive solar heating principles ensures minimal energy usage. The extensive landscaping around the structure incorporates native plants that require little water and provide a habitat for local wildlife.

Site selection plays a crucial role in the project’s design. By situating the building within a context that encourages interaction with the landscape, "Berço no Verde" promotes a lifestyle that prioritizes connection to nature. The thoughtful arrangement of communal spaces aims to stimulate social interactions among residents, reinforcing community ties.

To truly understand the architectural essence of "Berço no Verde," readers are encouraged to explore the project's architectural plans, sections, and designs. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that drive this initiative and detail the project's functional and aesthetic intentions.
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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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