Nestled among the trees in an enchanting Slovenian forest clearing, a series of four parallel walls take shape. These elemental forms, crafted from local earth, create a simple residential enclosure. This experiential and experimental structure will provide a platform for research into rammed earth construction techniques. It will also create a tranquil habitat from which to enjoy the natural environment!
The simple low-slung rectilinear forms of the structure will respect its context within a historic 20th century farm. The building has been carefully positioned among the forest trees to minimise any disturbance to the surrounding natural environment. The orientation will provide passive shading during summer, and allow daylight during winter, taking advantage of the thermal insulating qualities of rammed earth to maximise thermal comfort.
The rammed earth walls will be constructed upon a concrete slab foundation. The rest of the enclosure will be assembled from light weight local timber roof beams and glazed windows. This will minimise the amount of intensive works with heavy machinery, avoiding impact on the forest.
The interior spaces will be materially experiential, with rammed earth as the primary finish. An open-plan living and sleeping area will be delineated by two rammed earth walls, framing dramatic forest views through full height glazed windows at either end. The simple structure is just under 30sqm internal area, and will highlight the sustainable, insulating and air quality improving qualities of rammed earth.
Openings on either side of the living space will form simple yet bespoke kitchenette and toilet areas. A low maintenance green roof with wild grasses and native ferns can provide additional insulation and help the structure blend into nature.
This design was submitted for the Rammed Earth House Competition held by Outsider.si
Images by Jonathan Choe
