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Concrete and Glass Retreat Embracing Privacy in the Umbrian Landscape

Author:
Kaspar Lätt
Concrete and Glass Retreat Embracing Privacy in the Umbrian Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with concrete and designed for privacy, the retreat harmonizes with the Umbrian landscape while creating adaptable communal and personal spaces for relaxation and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily of concrete to integrate with the landscape.
02
Features a closed courtyard that enhances privacy and tranquility.
03
Includes large window walls that frame views of the surrounding mountains.
04
Offers adaptable communal spaces alongside individual retreats.
05
Designed to respond to seasonal sunlight and temperature variations.

The project in the Umbrian Valley embodies an exploration of privacy and community through its thoughtful layout and connection to the landscape. Known as Panorama Montagna, it artfully balances shared spaces with opportunities for individual reflection. Surrounded by mountains and accessed via a single road, the site presents both challenges and opportunities. The design seeks to address the visibility from the road while celebrating the natural beauty of the region.

Site Engagement
The architecture carefully responds to the unique characteristics of its surroundings, enhancing the experience of those who inhabit it. The distance from the nearest structure, over 100 meters, allows for thoughtful placement and orientation. Large windows are strategically positioned to capture light and views, inviting the scenic landscape into daily life. The overall plan encourages movement between the interior and the exterior, emphasizing a connection with nature.

Spatial Arrangement
The floor plan features an open design with flexibility in how spaces can be used. Living areas are designed to accommodate both group gatherings and individual moments of quiet. The configuration promotes a sense of community while allowing for privacy through deliberate separation of spaces. An inviting entrance acts as a bridge, drawing people into the heart of the design while minimizing barriers to the outdoors.

Balancing Private and Public
A closed courtyard serves as a refuge, providing a peaceful area that contrasts with larger communal spaces. This thoughtful inclusion creates varied zones that cater to different needs, fulfilling both social and personal requirements. The design reflects a clear understanding of how users might engage with different environments throughout their day.

Material and Climate Awareness
The choice of concrete as a primary material aligns with the area’s character, ensuring structural strength and visual consistency. This choice supports the building's connection to the landscape and frames its interactions with the surrounding environment. Consideration of the regional climate is evident, as the design considers temperature variations and sunlight patterns, allowing for comfort in all seasons.

A noteworthy feature is the open fireplace, which links the interior and exterior spaces. It provides warmth and serves as a focal point for both the living area and the outdoor setting, deepening the connection between the two environments.

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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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