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Sculpted Earth and Glass Elevating Biophilic Community Spaces with Natural Harmony

Authors:
John william Henry, Mukhtar Rezaei, Elise Jordan
Sculpted Earth and Glass Elevating Biophilic Community Spaces with Natural Harmony

Project in-detail

Carved from local earth and surrounded by a natural landscape, the domed structure utilizes rammed earth and glass to create an inviting space that enhances biophilic connections while serving as a communal gathering point.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
02
Integrates expansive glass openings to enhance natural light and create visual continuity with the landscape.
03
Features a circular central space designed to foster community interaction.
04
Employs biophilic design principles to facilitate a connection between occupants and nature.
05
Highlights a seamless transition between interior and exterior through organic forms and pathways.
The Earth Egg is an architectural design project that seeks to forge a harmonious relationship between built environments and natural landscapes. This structure features a distinctive dome shape, emulating the form of an egg, while integrating seamlessly with its surroundings. Located in a landscape marked by natural vegetation, the project emphasizes sustainability and encourages a connection with nature. Its central circular space is complemented by strategically placed openings that provide abundant natural light and views of the environment, making the interior feel connected to the outdoors.

Sustainability is a core emphasis of the Earth Egg project. Utilizing local and natural materials such as earth, clay, and timber, the design reduces environmental impact while celebrating its geographical context. The material choices not only contribute to durability but also align the structure with the principles of earth architecture. This approach fosters a sense of belonging, reinforcing the connection between human habitation and the natural world.

Unique design approaches within the Earth Egg include its integration of biophilic principles, which focus on designing spaces that enhance occupants' connection with nature. The structure employs organic forms and natural shapes that resonate with human instincts, promoting well-being and comfort. Additionally, the arrangement of the central space and the pathways connecting it to the surrounding landscape promote fluid movement, encouraging interaction with the site’s natural features.

The transparency of glass elements effectively blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, creating a seamless transition that enhances the user experience. This focus on visual connectivity encourages occupants to engage with the landscape actively. The architectural design thus goes beyond merely providing shelter; it serves as a facilitator of interactions with the environment, advocating for a more sustainable and conscious approach to architecture.

To gain deeper insights into the project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented in the project documentation. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the Earth Egg's architectural ideas and innovative design approaches.
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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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