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Charred Wood and Local Stone Create Sustainable Retreats in a Serene Landscape

Author:
Monika Binkowska
Charred Wood and Local Stone Create Sustainable Retreats in a Serene Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wood and local stone, the design seamlessly integrates with the landscape while providing inviting guest accommodations that emphasize sustainability and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates salvaged local stone from existing structures to enhance contextual harmony.
02
Features charred wooden shingles, promoting fire resistance and rich texture.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design, optimizing both thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Includes integrated greywater recycling systems to support environmental sustainability.
The project "Nel Mezzo" presents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design that harmonizes traditional Italian elements with contemporary functionality. Situated in a context rich with historical significance, "Nel Mezzo" not only serves as a series of guest houses but also aims to foster a sense of community among its residents. The architecture emphasizes privacy while promoting interaction, creating an inviting retreat that draws on the natural beauty and heritage of its surroundings.

This project represents a blend of rustic charm and modern living, encapsulated in five well-designed guest houses alongside a central communal building dedicated to wine tasting and social gatherings. Each guest house is designed with an approximate footprint of 70 square meters, carefully laid out to facilitate both private and communal experiences. This arrangement not only respects the individual needs of guests but also enhances their connection to one another and to the landscape. The central building acts as the social nucleus of the project, characterized by large ribbon windows that frame stunning views of the natural environment and integrate indoor spaces with the outdoors seamlessly.

A key aspect of "Nel Mezzo" is its commitment to sustainability and ecological consciousness. The project employs a variety of materials that reflect the local context while ensuring durability and minimal environmental impact. Local stone, repurposed wood, ceramic tiles, and glass panels characterize the buildings, each material chosen for its aesthetic and sustainable properties. The use of salvaged stone from existing structures strengthens the relationship between the new design and the historical elements of the site, while ceramic tiles pay homage to traditional craftsmanship.

Furthermore, the architectural design incorporates strategies for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Solar panels on the roofs minimize reliance on external energy sources, while advanced water management systems, including greywater recycling and composting toilets, enhance the ecological viability of the project. Such strategies are not superficial additions but integral elements of the design that reflect a comprehensive understanding of contemporary environmental challenges.

The spatial arrangement of "Nel Mezzo" allows for a flexible accommodation of varying guest needs, with modular units that can adapt according to family configurations or group sizes. This adaptability speaks to modern requirements for living spaces, where flexibility is often essential. The guest houses are oriented to maximize natural light and views, promoting a therapeutic connection to nature that is integral to the overall experience of visitors.

The landscaping surrounding the guest houses has been designed with intention, featuring gardens that include herbs, citrus trees, and olive plants. This not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the environment but also invites residents to engage with their surroundings actively. The communal spaces provide opportunities for social interaction, bridging cultural experiences and creating a platform for residents to engage in shared activities.

The project showcases a unique design approach that balances individual privacy with communal living, rooted in a rich cultural and architectural context. By reflecting the vernacular characteristics of Italian architecture and integrating modern functionality, "Nel Mezzo" aims to enrich the experience of its inhabitants while remaining sensitive to its environmental surroundings.

To gain a deeper understanding of this well-considered architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that reveal the ideation and execution behind "Nel Mezzo." Discovering the specifics of this project will provide further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that shape its unique character and functional promise.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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