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Aged Oak Slats and Permeable Surfaces in Vineyard Guest Homes

Author:
Arthur Schellenberg
Aged Oak Slats and Permeable Surfaces in Vineyard Guest Homes
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Aged oak slats and permeable surfaces create a sustainable framework for guest homes that harmonize with the natural rhythms of the vineyard, offering a unique space for communal living and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aligned with five solar events for optimal natural light.
02
Features a central sundial and fire pit to enhance communal gatherings.
03
Constructed with aged oak slats resembling wine barrel staves.
04
Utilizes a gray water system to support sustainable landscaping.
05
Incorporates permeable materials for effective water management.

The Sunrise Guest Homes are designed to connect visitors with the surrounding vineyard while reflecting the themes of winemaking and community. The setting is visually appealing, offering an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the experience of the land. Each home carefully addresses its surroundings, creating a space where storytelling and social interaction can flourish. The arrangement of the structures is influenced by the movement of the sun, highlighting the relationship between architecture and nature.

Architectural Orientation

Each guest home is aligned with five specific solar events: the Vernal Equinox, Autumnal Equinox, Summer Solstice, Winter Solstice, and November 11th. This thoughtful orientation allows for east-facing bedrooms that capture the sunrise, offering light and warmth each morning. The western side includes a sundial and a fire pit, creating a central space for gatherings. This arrangement encourages connections among guests, promoting an inviting atmosphere that resonates with shared experiences.

Sustainable Systems

The design incorporates various sustainable features to minimize environmental impact. Solar panels are placed on the roofs, which convert sunlight into electricity, helping to meet the homes' energy needs. Additionally, wind turbines contribute further energy, creating a fuller commitment to renewable resources. This focus on energy efficiency aligns with modern values of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Material Expression

Materials selected for the homes create a link to the world of winemaking. Aged oak slats are used for cladding, where their appearance mirrors the staves of wine barrels. The wood offers a pleasing aesthetic and enhances insulation, ensuring comfort inside. Stone foundations provide stability and connect the buildings to the land, grounding them within the natural setting.

Water Management

Efficient water management is another important element of the design. The use of permeable surfaces allows rainwater to soak into the ground, supporting local ecology. Water conservation extends to the use of a gray water system, which collects and repurposes wastewater for irrigation. This thoughtful approach reinforces the commitment to sustainable resource use and aligns with the overall environmental goals of the project.



Spaces oriented towards the west invite guests to enjoy sunset views, encouraging moments of reflection as the day comes to an end.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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