© Wang Ce
Since 2014, a dedicated village team has partnered with Kunming University of Science and Technology to enhance the construction techniques and seismic resilience of adobe farmhouses in rural Southwest China. To support long-term scientific research and practical experiments in rural building methods, as well as to provide training for local craftsmen and showcase advancements in rammed earth construction, the team established an adobe workshop—also known as the Yunnan Rural Revitalization Research and Development Center—on the university campus.
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
The design thoughtfully responds to Kunming’s climate, featuring a semi-outdoor multifunctional space with skylights that offers a versatile and comfortable environment for training sessions and academic events. The rammed earth construction excels in thermal storage, complemented by passive design strategies such as natural lighting, ventilation, and moderate shading. This results in superior indoor environmental quality with minimal energy consumption, as the building operates without artificial heating or cooling systems.
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
To reduce environmental impact, up to 89% of the building materials (by weight) are natural and locally sourced, including soil, gravel, and sand. No industrial stabilizers were added to the raw soil, ensuring the materials are fully reusable, biodegradable, and pollution-free. The roof is constructed from fast-growing bamboo, while the interior and exterior walls remain undecorated. Industrial materials such as cement and steel are only applied in essential structural components like columns, ring beams, and floor slabs.
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
To enhance seismic performance, the raw soil has been scientifically analyzed and mixed with an appropriate amount of natural aggregates such as gravel and sand. Reinforced concrete columns are embedded within the walls to increase shear resistance, while reinforced concrete foundations and ring beams provide overall structural integrity and stability. Pneumatic hammers and aluminum alloy formwork were utilized during wall compaction to improve density and durability. Mechanical testing and vibration table experiments confirm that this new rammed earth technology fully complies with local seismic building codes.
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
During construction, 33 villagers took part in craftsman training and building activities. This experience transformed their perception of traditional rammed earth architecture and demonstrated that local materials and techniques are well-suited to the region’s culture and lifestyle. The project also serves as a valuable model and reference for local rural construction policies and guidelines regarding rammed earth farmhouse development.
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
© Wang Ce
Technical Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Layered Schematic Diagram
Project Information
Architect: One Dedicated Village
Year: 2019
Building Area: 1,328.5 square meters
Location: School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chenggong Campus, Kunming University of Science and Technology, No. 727 Jingming South Road, Chenggong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
Principal Architect: Ng En Rong
Architects: Ng En Rong, Wan Chai, Zhang Yanfen, Chi Xin’an
Structural Engineer: Bai Wenfeng
Raw Soil Construction Consultants: Marc Auzet and Juliette Goudy
Resident Architects: Tian Fang, Liu Xiaoxue, Zhou Lai
Landscape Architect: Daishan
Roof Bamboo Structure: Shao Changzhuan
Construction Teams: Village construction team led by Yang Qingguang from Guangming Village, Yunnan, and village construction team led by Yang Changfu from Huili County, Sichuan
Owners: Institute of Environment, Energy and Sustainable Development, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Kunming University of Technology
Funding: Mrs. Chen Zhang Mincong Charitable Foundation Limited
Photographer: Wang Ce
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