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

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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

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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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