rammed earth sculpts azulpitanga's tiny shelter in the araripe forest of brazil

minimal Refúgio do Sol integrates into the natural landscape

Sun Shelter / Refúgio do Sol by AzulPitanga is a 60 sqm tiny house constructed with rammed earth, integrating into the landscape of the Araripe National Forest in Ceará, Brazil, designed to address the region’s high thermal variation. Inspired by elements of African-origin religions and terreiros (community complexes), the shelter embodies a cozy retreat from the intense Brazilian sun in the rural hinterlands. The construction process, reminiscent of traditional practices, involved the use of rammed earth and wattle and daub techniques, replacing drums with manual earth-piling and weaving.

Refúgio do Sol is integrated into the landscape of the Araripe National Forest | all images by Igor Ribeiro

AzulPitanga Harmonizes Traditional and Modern Techniques

The 62.50 sqm residence in Sítio Solzinho, Barbalha (CE), within the captivating Chapada do Araripe, harmonizes various building methods to enhance human comfort amidst natural elements. A key challenge was preserving the scenic views while mitigating solar exposure, achieved through an imposing 0.40m thick rammed earth wall, serving as a thermal buffer against the western sun. This wall delineates the layout, with the hydraulic block on the west housing bathrooms and service areas, while a light structure with wooden beams adjoins it on the east, featuring movable rammed earth walls and antique shop windows. Sustainable water treatment methods, including a banana tree cycle and evapotranspiration basin, were incorporated into the design by AzulPitanga to promote eco-friendly practices. The artisanal construction process fostered a collaborative learning environment, enriching the experience for all involved and contributing to a unique architectural outcome.

hand-rammed earth, reinforced mortar, and wooden beams and pillars construct the tiny house

the hydraulic block on the left houses service areas, while the social areas settle on the right side

inspired by African-origin traditions, this shelter provides a cozy retreat from the Brazilian sun

the west side highlights the rammed earth wall and reinforced mortar hydraulic block

small openings on the west protect the interior from solar intensity

the facade boasts white walls made of hand-rammed earth and large wood-framed openings

antique shop windows add charm to the design, promoting a sustainable lifestyle

in the living room, the outdoor area spatially integrates with the interior of the house

natural materials and textures merge the kitchen and dining room

the bedroom mezzanine, and bathroom, balcony stand protected from solar intensity

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Refúgio do Sol plans

project info:

name: Sun Shelter / Refúgio do Sol
architect: AzulPitanga | @azul.pitanga

lead architects: André Moraes and Carolina Mapurunga

collaboration: Andressa Gomes

bioconstruction: João, Francisco, Pedrinho, Ciçô

graphical representation: Liverny Chaves

area: 62,5 sqm

location: Barbalha, Brazil

photography: Igor Ribeiro

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom