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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Define a Vineyard Retreat in Umbria

Authors:
Milan Kapetanovic, Rade Sanader
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Define a Vineyard Retreat in Umbria

Project in-detail

With its distinctive barrel-shaped roofs clad in charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this retreat harmonizes with the Umbria landscape, offering guests an immersive experience in wine culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guest homes incorporate charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to create energy-efficient structures with excellent thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design contributes to a visually distinct silhouette that mirrors traditional wine barrels.
04
Large glass facades provide panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, fostering a strong connection to nature.
05
The layout includes a central communal square designed to encourage guest interaction and social engagement.
The Tili Wine Italy Guest Homes project embodies a thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape, situated in the serene Umbria Valley of Italy. This design represents a unique hospitality experience that accentuates the region's natural beauty while addressing the modern needs of travelers. The project serves as a destination for wine enthusiasts, capitalizing on its scenic location to provide guests with a retreat that resonates with the local wine culture.

Functionally, the guest homes are designed to accommodate visitors seeking a blend of relaxation and engagement with the surrounding vineyard landscape. The layout consists of individual homes arranged around a communal square, which acts as the focal point for social interaction and community gatherings. This arrangement promotes a sense of belonging among guests and encourages them to partake in shared experiences while still providing private spaces for personal reflection and leisure.

The architectural design employs a cohesive aesthetic through the use of materials that reflect the region's character. Wood, glass, and concrete are the primary materials, each selected for their functional benefits and visual appeal. Wood lends a warm, natural feel to the structures and is utilized for both the façade and interior elements. Large glass windows strategically placed throughout the guest homes allow for abundant natural light and foster a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This seamless transition is an essential aspect of the design, offering stunning views of the rolling hills and vineyards. Concrete is utilized primarily for structural integrity, ensuring that the guest homes are resilient while providing a solid base for the more delicate wooden elements.

A distinctive feature of the project is its homage to the traditional wine barrel, reflected in the shape and sloping roofs of the guest homes. This design choice not only emphasizes the site's viniculture but also enhances the overall aesthetic coherence, as the homes mimic familiar forms that resonate with visitors' experiences of wine production. Furthermore, thoughtful consideration of the site’s topology allows for the structures to blend harmoniously into the landscape, mitigating any disruption to the natural scenery.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of this architectural endeavor. The use of local materials not only supports the region’s economy but also roots the project in the cultural context of Umbria. The design aims to minimize its environmental footprint while providing a comfortable experience for guests. Open-air spaces are incorporated into the design to invite guests to engage with nature, facilitating both relaxation and interaction in a serene environment.

Moreover, the layout encourages a dialogue between the private and public realms. The communal square, furnished with seating and shaded areas, invites guests to socialize and partake in communal activities. This design aspect cultivates community ties among visitors while maintaining a balance between shared and personal spaces. It corresponds with contemporary trends in hospitality that seek to enhance the guest experience through curated social environments.

The Tili Wine Italy Guest Homes project exemplifies a well-rounded approach to architecture and design, reflecting its geographical context while providing a functional space for leisure and engagement. It merges modern architectural principles with an intimate understanding of local culture, resulting in a project that is both practical and enriching. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this design, including the architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas, a closer examination of the project presentation is highly encouraged.
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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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