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Burnt Cork and Vernacular Brick Guesthouses for Vineyard Retreat

Author:
3dm Architecture
Burnt Cork and Vernacular Brick Guesthouses for Vineyard Retreat
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Combining burnt cork and vernacular brick, the design offers private guesthouses that connect visitors to the surrounding vineyard while emphasizing sustainability and traditional craftsmanship.
5 key facts about this project
01
Burnt cork used in construction enhances insulation and fire resistance.
02
Vernacular brick flooring draws on local craftsmanship and traditions.
03
Private terraces provide unique views of the surrounding vineyards.
04
Outdoor kitchens promote communal dining experiences in the natural setting.
05
The design integrates landscape elements, creating a seamless connection with nature.

*TERRA* is situated within the scenic landscape of Tili Vini Winery, creating a space that celebrates the craft of winemaking. Its design concept emphasizes comfort and community, inviting visitors to connect with both the natural surroundings and cultural traditions. The project aims to blend historical practices with modern needs, resulting in a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.

Design Approach

The architectural form of TERRA is carefully designed to reflect the historical context of the site. The extension maintains similar massing and tilted roofs, allowing it to fit harmoniously with the existing structure. This thoughtful design creates five separate guest houses, each featuring private outdoor spaces that provide views of the vineyards and surrounding landscapes.

Spatial Organization

Interiors are organized around two main principles: ‘ORA’ for the present and ‘TERRA’ for the past. ‘ORA’ spaces have smooth finishes and a contemporary feel, while ‘TERRA’ areas embrace a more rustic aesthetic that evokes nostalgia. This thoughtful arrangement of spaces enhances the user experience and strengthens the connection to winemaking traditions.

Sustainability and Materials

Sustainability is an important focus in TERRA. The selection of materials includes burnt cork, local brick flooring, plaster, paint, and ecoclay panels. Each of these materials plays a role in enhancing the sensory quality of the spaces. They help create an environment that is both connected to local craftsmanship and mindful of ecological impacts.

Community Engagement

The design features communal spaces that encourage social interaction among guests, an important aspect of Italian culture. The dining area preserves elements of the existing building while accommodating various social functions, highlighting the tradition of shared meals. Additional outdoor kitchens and fire pits create inviting areas for gatherings, enhancing the experience within the winery.

The pool is designed horizontally, providing a reflective surface that interacts with the landscape, bringing nature into the architectural narrative. This detail draws attention to the relationship between the built environment and its surroundings.

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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?

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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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