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Bricks and Water Reflections in a Modular Guesthouse Design

Authors:
Leonardo Lepore, Roberto Bologna, Giulio Hasanaj, Valentina Spagnoli
Bricks and Water Reflections in a Modular Guesthouse Design
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A two-story testing area with large windows and a decorative band of vine motifs complements modular guest houses constructed from reclaimed bricks and x-lam wood, creating a distinctive space for visitors to experience the Tili family's wine and oil in Umbria.
5 key facts about this project
01
The testing area is rotated 45 degrees from the grid layout to enhance visual connectivity with the landscape.
02
Guest houses are designed with a modular layout, allowing for customization based on client needs.
03
Reclaimed bricks from demolished structures are used for exterior cladding and paving throughout the project.
04
A central courtyard features a reflective water element to foster social interaction among guests.
05
The design incorporates large windows to frame views of the surrounding vineyards, enhancing the visitor experience.

The design is situated in the Umbrian valley, an area known for its fertile fields and rich agricultural traditions. It serves to welcome guests visiting the Tili family's vineyard. The layout emphasizes social spaces and encourages interaction with the picturesque landscape. The concept is based on a systematic grid, which organizes guest houses and a wine testing area, enhancing visitors' experience in this tranquil environment.

Master Plan Organization

A coherent grid layout defines the relationship among different structures. Guest houses and the testing area are grouped around a central courtyard. This courtyard serves as a gathering space where people can enjoy the wine and oil produced on-site. At its center is a reflective water feature that enhances the calm atmosphere and acts as a focal point for gatherings.

Testing Area as Landmark

The testing area is a notable aspect of the design. It is rotated 45 degrees from the primary grid and raised to two stories, giving it prominence. This positioning allows for expansive views of the surrounding landscape, enriching the visitor experience. The design enhances the connection between the indoors and the beauty of the outdoors, drawing attention to the natural scenery.

Guest House Design

Guest houses are carefully designed to offer intimate settings for visitors. Each house features a primary square form guided by a 2m x 2m grid. The layout consists of four functional areas: kitchen, living room, bedroom, and bathroom. This organization minimizes the need for hallways and encourages a sense of openness throughout the space. The design’s modularity provides flexibility, catering to the varied needs of guests while maintaining a harmonious flow.

Material Reuse and Sustainability

Sustainability plays a significant role in the project, showcased through the reuse of bricks from demolished buildings on the site. These reclaimed materials are used for cladding new structures and for outdoor paving, preserving the site's historical context while supporting eco-friendly practices. This approach to material reuse reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility in the overall design.

The testing area features wide windows that capture views of the vineyards. Visitors can look out and enjoy the scenery, while a decorative band of vine-inspired perforated detailing circles the upper facade, tying the structure to its agricultural roots.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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