Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Beauty In Imperfections Through Stone Walls And Rustic Detailing In Culinary Space

Author:
Ma constanza Musté
Beauty In Imperfections Through Stone Walls And Rustic Detailing In Culinary Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing Kintsugi philosophy, the design incorporates stone walls and rustic detailing to create a sustainable culinary space that celebrates the value of imperfections and local heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Emphasizes the Kintsugi philosophy by celebrating imperfections in design.
02
Integrates large windows for enhanced views of the surrounding grape fields.
03
Utilizes rainwater collection systems to promote resource sustainability.
04
Features a culinary tour corridor that allows visual engagement with food preparation.
05
Combines rustic detailing with modern forms to reflect local heritage and culture.

Pezzo di Terra is located in Spello, Province of Perugia, Italy. This design integrates with the landscape and reflects the local culture while committing to sustainable practices. Inspired by the philosophy of Kintsugi, the project emphasizes the idea of value in imperfection. It brings together historical and contemporary elements to create a unified experience.

Site Context and Environmental Considerations

The design takes advantage of Spello's specific climate to provide natural light and ventilation. The building's configuration employs strategic openings and overhangs, which significantly lower the need for artificial lighting and cooling systems. Alongside this, rainwater collection systems demonstrate a responsible approach to managing natural resources, reinforcing the overall sustainability of the building.

Functional Layout and Spatial Organization

Inside Pezzo di Terra, the layout promotes comfort and functionality. A large lobby greets visitors and leads them into a reception area, which connects to a restaurant that focuses on local culinary traditions. A corridor allows views into the cooking area while also framing beautiful scenes of the nearby grape fields, connecting the dining experience to the surrounding agriculture.

Materiality and Design Integrity

Materials in the project are chosen to reflect both tradition and modern design. Wood highlights rustic features that pay homage to local craftsmanship, while stone walls form a key part of the structure, providing insulation and continuity with the area’s geology. Concrete is employed to shape the interior spaces and enhance the flow of light, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Articulation of Indoor-Outdoor Connection

Large windows and terraces are included in the design, fostering a direct connection between the inside and outside. These architectural choices allow for ample natural light while encouraging outdoor engagement. The thoughtful arrangement of these features creates an open environment, where the landscape becomes a vital aspect of the overall experience, enriching visitors' interaction with the space.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy