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Subterranean Dwelling Crafted From Rammed Earth and Glass Flooring In Arid Landscapes

Authors:
Nasko Iordanov Balaktchiev, Cesar Adrian Salazar Alonso
Subterranean Dwelling Crafted From Rammed Earth and Glass Flooring In Arid Landscapes

Project in-detail

Nestled beneath the surface, the dwelling utilizes rammed earth and glass flooring to create a sustainable living environment that blends seamlessly with the desert landscape, optimizing energy efficiency and offering a novel approach to modern habitat in arid conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rammed earth for superior thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Features a glass floor to connect interior spaces with the surrounding ecosystem.
03
Entry ramp channels rainwater into an integrated garden area for landscaping.
04
Incorporates a blackwater sewage system for sustainable waste management.
05
Designed to minimize visual impact on the desert landscape with a subterranean footprint.

The Subterrarium is a thoughtfully designed desert dwelling situated within the arid regions of the American Southwest. This architectural project showcases a deep commitment to sustainability, environmental integration, and modern living. By utilizing a micro-home concept, the dwelling is partially excavated into the ground, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the landscape while providing natural insulation. The design prioritizes energy efficiency and minimal visual disruption, reflecting a trend in modern architecture focused on ecological harmony.

Sustainability and Functionality The primary design approach relies on the use of rammed earth as the main structural material, which contributes to thermal mass and energy efficiency. This technique enhances the dwelling's capability to maintain a stable interior climate, particularly beneficial in extreme weather conditions. The architecture also employs corrugated steel roofing for durability, alongside Kingspan Tek Structurally Insulated Panels—ensuring optimal insulation and lightness.

The unique entry ramp captures rainwater, directing it into a garden area, which underscores the project's commitment to utilizing natural resources. This is complemented by a blackwater sewage treatment plant that processes waste sustainably, returning clean water to the surrounding environment. By focusing on these aspects, the project represents a forward-thinking solution to modern dwelling challenges in desert climates.

Innovative Design Approaches Subterrarium distinguishes itself through its innovative use of materials and spatial configurations. The incorporation of glass flooring acts as a visual connection to the underlying ecosystem, allowing natural light to permeate the space without compromising privacy. Additionally, the dwelling features large operable windows on the south and north facades, supporting passive ventilation and natural heating.

The interior is designed to be minimal yet functional, with a fluid layout that facilitates movement and interaction among various spaces, including living, sleeping, and communal areas. The use of milled wood for interior finishing creates warmth, balancing the earthy tones of the rammed earth structure.

In essence, the Subterrarium serves as a model of efficient living that redefines the relationship between architecture and its environment. For further exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, please consider reviewing the detailed project presentation. This comprehensive look will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that shape Subterrarium and its innovative approach to modern desert dwelling.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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