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Charred Wooden Shingles and Xlam Panels Shape Sustainable Guest Accommodations in the Umbrian Valley

Author:
Luca Menin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Xlam Panels Shape Sustainable Guest Accommodations in the Umbrian Valley

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly integrates with the Umbrian landscape to provide sustainable accommodations tailored for wine tourism.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid assembly and structural efficiency.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and views.
04
Integrates natural pools for sustainable water management and landscape enhancement.
05
Features communal spaces that foster interaction among guests while maintaining privacy.

The architectural project "Tili Vini for Guests" is designed to enhance the experience of visitors in the Umbrian Valley, an area renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, particularly in wine production. This project integrates contemporary accommodations while respecting the region's environmental and cultural context. The design aims to attract tourists by providing a blend of luxury, comfort, and accessibility to nature.

The primary function of the project is to accommodate guests in a setting that allows for immersion in the local culture and landscape. It comprises guest homes and a central communal tower, each carefully calibrated to foster interactions while preserving privacy. The layout is characterized by a series of "L"-shaped volumes that offer both visual and functional advantages, effectively capturing sunlight and maximizing energy efficiency.

Innovative Structural Design
One of the project’s distinguishing features is its innovative use of materials and design strategies. The buildings utilize Cross-Laminated Timber (XLAM) for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, allowing for lightweight construction that still maintains robust performance. The guest homes are designed with core living spaces on the ground floor and private bedrooms above, promoting both functionality and comfort.

The central tower features large, open areas that facilitate communal activities, such as dining and wine tastings. Its design integrates large glass elements to create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, maximizing natural light while offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Sustainable Practices and Cultural Integration
Sustainability is at the core of the architectural approach. The project employs passive solar design principles, optimizing the buildings’ orientation to harness energy from the sun while minimizing the need for artificial heating and cooling. This is complemented by the use of locally sourced materials, including natural stone for cladding, which reflects the traditional construction methods of the region.

The integration of natural pools serves as an innovative water management solution, functioning as ecological features that promote biodiversity. These systems not only enhance environmental sustainability but also elevate the aesthetic value of the property.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections of "Tili Vini for Guests" for a comprehensive understanding of the project’s design and functionality. Delving into the architectural designs and ideas will provide deeper insights into how this project uniquely contributes to the landscape of tourism in the Umbrian Valley.

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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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