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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
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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.

### Project Overview

"Berço no Verde" is an architectural design initiative situated in the lush landscapes of Portugal, focusing on the integration of sustainable architecture with communal functions. The project aims to create a structure that not only aligns with its natural setting but also supports community-oriented activities, fostering interaction and connection among users. It explores conceptual frameworks, materiality, design solutions, and spatial strategies to achieve its goals.

### Spatial Organization

The design features a strategic placement of the main entrance on the eastern side of the site, ensuring accessibility and establishing a visual relationship with the landscape. The open-plan layout promotes airflow and natural light, contributing to an inviting environment. Key functional areas include an entry lobby, a multipurpose room for community gatherings, private guest rooms, and a kitchen and dining area encouraging socialization and shared experiences.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials is critical to the aesthetic and functional outcomes of the project, focusing on sustainability and local sourcing. Notable materials include rammed earth for structural walls, which provide thermal mass, and terracotta bricks for roofing, enhancing insulation while contributing to the visual appeal. Reinforced concrete offers structural integrity and design flexibility, while natural paints and glass panels foster an ecologically mindful environment and maximize light entry. The integration of local landscaping elements further enhances the connection with the surrounding ecosystem, promoting a biophilic environment.

### Design Outcomes

The architectural solutions implemented in "Berço no Verde" yield significant outcomes in sustainability, community engagement, cultural relevance, and environmental symbiosis. The design emphasizes energy efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint while creating varied spaces that facilitate social interaction. By intertwining traditional architectural motifs with contemporary practices, the project bridges historical and modern contexts. The careful landscaping and strategic building positioning enhance the site's aesthetic while minimizing ecological impact.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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