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Circular Design Utilizing Sandstone and Timber for Community Living

Authors:
Andrea Riva, Matteo Zapparoli
Circular Design Utilizing Sandstone and Timber for Community Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from local sandstone and timber, the circular design fosters a harmonious connection to nature while providing versatile living spaces for communal gathering and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a circular layout that enhances community interaction and natural flow between spaces.
02
Utilizes locally sourced sandstone for thermal stability and aesthetic cohesion with the landscape.
03
Incorporates photovoltaic panels to support energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Offers a multifunctional meditation room designed for reflection and tranquility.
05
Prioritizes large windows to maximize natural light and connect residents with the surrounding environment.
Villa Oléario is an architectural project that thoughtfully conveys the essence of contemporary design while deeply resonating with the cultural heritage of its geographical context. Located within a picturesque landscape known for its olive production, this project serves not only as a residence but also as a gathering space that embraces the vitality and history of the region. The building is conceived as a modern interpretation of traditional olive oil production houses, artfully merging local history with current architectural practices.

The design of Villa Oléario incorporates a circular layout that encourages interaction among its inhabitants. This organization fosters a sense of community, with spaces flowing naturally into one another. The ground floor serves as the core of the home, featuring a temperature-controlled cellar dedicated to the storage of wine and olive oil, a dining room that invites communal gatherings, and a meditation room designed to offer tranquility and reflection. This intelligent spatial arrangement emphasizes the importance of both shared experiences and personal retreat, allowing inhabitants to transition seamlessly between the two.

Materials play a significant role in the architectural integrity of Villa Oléario, with a deliberate focus on local resources. The primary materials used include sandstone, concrete, wood, and glass. Sandstone and concrete are utilized for structural elements, providing durability and thermal stability. The wood contributes warmth through its application in cladding and interior finishes, enhancing the inviting atmosphere of the dwelling. The extensive use of glass in large windows and skylights ensures the interior spaces are well-lit and visually connected to the surrounding environment, thereby reinforcing the residents' connection to nature.

Sustainability is also a central theme in the design of Villa Oléario. The building incorporates photovoltaic panels to optimize energy efficiency, demonstrating a commitment to reducing the ecological footprint of the structure. Careful consideration of ecological impacts is evident in the construction methods employed, which prioritize minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape. This holistic approach not only addresses contemporary concerns around sustainability but also honors the natural beauty that characterizes the site.

What sets Villa Oléario apart is its unique design philosophy that embraces multifunctional spaces. Each area within the project is adaptable, accommodating various activities and facilitating diverse social interactions. The circular design exemplifies modern living ideals while paying homage to ancient traditions found in the region, making it a harmonious blend of old and new.

For anyone interested in a deeper exploration of this project, it is beneficial to review the architectural plans, sections, and design elements that further illustrate Villa Oléario's thoughtful layout and material selection. This examination will provide greater insight into how the project achieves its goals of sustainability and community engagement through its architectural choices. Villa Oléario ultimately stands as a significant work that encapsulates the values of place, connection, and contemporary living.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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