THE TERRA PAVILLION

FIRST PRIZE WINNER

+ First Prize Winner (Out of 44 Entries)

INTERNATIONAL RENDERING COMPETITION – MATERIALIZE 2024

Organized by Archiol Competitions 

The Terra Pavilion is a bold architectural vision that celebrates the innovative potential of Compressed Earth as a core building material, elevating its role in shaping both the look and functionality of structures. This design merges ancient earthen techniques with forward-looking sustainable practices, shifting compressed earth from a symbol of antiquity to one of futuristic possibility, while highlighting how material choices influence the performance and presence of a building.

Drawing from the contours and layers of natural landscapes, the Terra Pavilion uses Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) formed from locally sourced soil, sand, and clay to construct walls that ripple and flow like the curves of sedimentary rock. These blocks, compacted under immense pressure, provide the structure with strength and resilience. The walls, left exposed, reveal earth tones that range from ochre to deep brown, creating a dramatic visual against the open sky. Over time, the material’s raw surface will age with elegance, merging the pavilion even more into its natural surroundings.

Compressed earth also plays a vital role in regulating the pavilion’s climate. Thick earthen walls absorb the heat of the day, releasing it slowly at night to create a natural thermal balance. Perforations in the walls allow sunlight to dance through the space, with the interplay of light and shadow evolving throughout the day. The pavilion’s design takes advantage of the material’s ability to create a cool, energy-efficient environment without relying on heavy mechanical systems.

Inside, hand-carved niches and alcoves emerge from the compressed earth, blending seamlessly into the overall structure. These organic shapes, contrasted with polished glass and metal accents, create an interior that feels both grounded in tradition and modern in its execution. Woven natural fibers and custom-designed furnishings, crafted from local materials, further establish a tactile connection between the pavilion and its environment, emphasizing harmony between form and material.

The Terra Pavilion demonstrates that compressed earth, once thought primitive, can be a powerful tool in creating visually captivating, high-performance architecture. Through its thoughtful material exploration, this design not only honors the earth but also fosters a deep connection between structure, environment, and the people who inhabit it.

Check the results here: https://www.archiol.org/result/materialize-rendering-challenge-2024