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Cork and Laminate Structure Elevates Traditional Barn in Countryside Setting

Author:
Giovanni Pivetta
Cork and Laminate Structure Elevates Traditional Barn in Countryside Setting
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Utilizing cork and laminated wood, the design integrates a modern structure with an exposed historical barn, creating a unique guesthouse that harmonizes with the Italian countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cork for its sustainable properties while connecting to the local heritage.
02
Features a raised ground plane that integrates villas with the surrounding landscape.
03
Exposes the internal framework of the historical barn, enhancing structural transparency.
04
Includes two arches that frame views and link new structures with the existing barn.
05
Promotes intimate interactions between spaces, emphasizing comfort and exploration.

Tili Vini is located in the Italian countryside and combines contemporary design with the area’s historical context. The project seeks to change how visitors perceive their surroundings by using vertical perspectives. It achieves a thoughtful balance of addition and subtraction, which emphasizes the passage of time and creates a closer connection between people and the landscape.

Conceptual Framework

The design starts a conversation between new and old structures by manipulating the land. Private spaces are submerged, and parts of the terrain are cut away, encouraging engagement with the rich history of the site. The ground plane in front of the existing barn is lifted at the edges, allowing new villas to sit beneath it. This arrangement promotes a continuous interaction with the landscape, drawing occupants into the natural beauty surrounding them.

Structural Engagement

The existing barn is central to the design. Its internal structure is exposed, creating a visual link with the environment. This openness highlights the barn’s historical importance. A new building is placed at the lower level of the barn, creating a relationship between the old and the new. This connection is enhanced by two arches above the second floor, framing views of the landscape and linking visitors to the larger site.

Material Considerations

Selecting materials plays an important role in the design. Laminated wood and glass contribute to a modern feel. Cork stands out for its sustainable qualities and its connection to traditional practices. This material resonates with local heritage and offers a contemporary touch. The processing time of cork also relates to winemaking traditions in the region, adding another layer of meaning to the project’s design.

Spatial Configuration

The arrangement of the villas is designed to promote interaction with the landscape and the existing structures. This layout encourages exploration and provides comfort for those who occupy the space. The raised ground plane allows for vantage points that invite people to observe and engage with the surroundings.

The design concludes with a compelling expression where the interplay of forms and materials creates a strong sense of place and time, inviting reflection while remaining firmly tied to its historical background.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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