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Carved Wood Shelters Embracing Italian Brick Heritage in Wine Tourism Spaces

Author:
Blend Dema
Carved Wood Shelters Embracing Italian Brick Heritage in Wine Tourism Spaces
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Carved wood panels and traditional Italian bricks combine to create a series of guest accommodations and communal spaces that integrate seamlessly into the landscape, enriching the experience of wine tourism in Umbria.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a central courtyard that promotes community interaction.
02
Preservation of existing trees enhances the natural character of the site.
03
Guest houses incorporate circular windows for panoramic views of the landscape.
04
Carved wood panels underline the local craftsmanship and design sensitivity.
05
Restoration of an abandoned structure highlights the focus on historic integrity.

The project is located in Umbria, central Italy, where three buildings come together in a setting rich in history and cultural significance. The design focuses on creating a center for wine tourism, where visitors can enjoy accommodations and shared spaces that reflect the unique character of the surrounding landscape. By revitalizing these structures, the aim is to honor their historical roots while meeting the needs of today’s travelers.

Historical Context and Functionality

The main building is a two-level structure made of Italian bricks, which aligns with the architectural style of the region. It features a pitched roof and rustic openings, giving it an inviting and traditional appearance. Outdoor wood shutters add both beauty and utility, creating an engaging facade. This building serves as the central accommodation space, providing guests with an authentic experience of the local heritage.



Transformation of Existing Structures

Next to the main building is a single-story edifice that requires renovation. Although it is currently in poor condition, it will be transformed into additional guest rooms. The design approach for this structure focuses on preserving its existing character, allowing it to coexist with newer elements. This balance keeps the site’s history alive while introducing fresh functionality.



Integration of Communal Spaces

The wooden shelter is designed with carved panels and serves multiple functions: a restaurant and a wine tasting area. This arrangement promotes interaction and invites guests to gather, making it a welcoming environment for social experiences. The space enhances the pleasure of wine tasting, connecting visitors to the local wine culture in a meaningful way.



Environmental Considerations and Aesthetic Choices

Preserving the area’s natural features is a significant aspect of the design. Existing trees that may interfere with construction have been incorporated thoughtfully to maintain the site's character. Guest houses showcase different shapes and colors, providing each with its own identity, while still fitting harmoniously within the overall site. Features like circular windows and private terraces offer views of the nearby mountains, bringing the beauty of the surroundings closer to guests.



A central courtyard with a pool ties together the various spaces, allowing for both leisure and communal activities. By using Italian bricks and wood throughout, the design upholds a sense of durability and respect for traditional construction methods. These materials not only anchor the buildings in their cultural context but also enhance the experience for all who visit.

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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.

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