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Charred Wood Cladding and Transparent Glass in Sustainable Guest Homes Overlooking Umbrian Landscapes

Author:
T dániel Losoncz
Charred Wood Cladding and Transparent Glass in Sustainable Guest Homes Overlooking Umbrian Landscapes

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and expansive glass walls, the guest homes integrate seamlessly into the Umbrian landscape while providing a sustainable retreat for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates expansive glass walls to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
04
Includes a wildflower meadow designed to promote local biodiversity.
05
Arranged to foster communal interaction while preserving guest privacy.
The architectural project, located in the scenic region of Umbria, Italy, is designed to serve as a series of guest homes along with a wine-tasting area, aimed at providing visitors with an authentic experience of the local culture and natural environment. The design harmonizes modern architectural principles with traditional influences, reflecting the essence of the Umbrian landscape while offering functional living spaces. Each guest home is arranged to ensure privacy and integrates seamlessly with communal areas, creating an environment conducive to both relaxation and social interaction.

Architectural Integration with Landscape

One of the defining characteristics of this project is its careful integration with the surrounding landscape. Buildings are oriented to maximize views while maintain a low profile that complements the rolling hills of Umbria. The use of transparent glass walls in common areas promotes a visual connection between indoor spaces and the outdoors, emphasizing the natural beauty of the location. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the design but also allows for natural light to permeate the interiors, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Sustainable Design Strategies

Sustainability plays a crucial role in the project’s design philosophy. The use of bioclimatic principles informs the orientation of buildings for optimal natural ventilation and passive solar heating. Featuring green roofs and wildflower meadows, the landscape design prioritizes biodiversity, providing habitats for local wildlife while enhancing the ecological footprint of the project. Notable materials include anthracite sheet metal roofing, wood cladding for warmth, and head bricks for structural integrity, selected not only for durability but also for their alignment with local building traditions.

Community-Centric Planning

The layout of the guest homes encourages a sense of community while allowing for individual retreat. This balance is achieved through strategically placed communal spaces, such as the wine-tasting area, which serves as a gathering point. The architectural design fosters interaction among guests, creating an environment where cultural exchange is encouraged.

Through these thoughtful design strategies, the project distinguishes itself as an authentic interpretation of Umbrian culture, aiming to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the local context. For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that contribute to this project’s execution, further exploration of the presentation is encouraged.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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