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Cork Cladding and Glued Timber Create a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Daniella Siciliano, Ingrid Do Vale Reis, Renata De Oliveira Araujo
Cork Cladding and Glued Timber Create a Sustainable Community Retreat
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Constructed with cork cladding and glued laminated timber, the project offers a sustainable living solution that fosters community interaction in the heart of the Umbrian Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork cladding enhances thermal insulation while integrating with the landscape.
02
Glued laminated timber provides both strength and aesthetic warmth to the structure.
03
Large skylights and windows maximize natural light and scenic views.
04
The design includes a central open space that fosters community interactions.
05
Five residential modules offer individuality while maintaining a cohesive overall design.

Villa Vetta is located in the Umbrian Valley of Italy, where it combines traditional styles with modern design. The project reflects the Tili family’s deep connection to their land and heritage, particularly their passion for wine. The design focuses on sustainability, blending indoor and outdoor spaces to create a welcoming environment. By emphasizing a communal layout, the structure encourages social interaction and engagement among residents and visitors.

Materials and Thermal Performance

Cork cladding is a prominent feature, chosen for its excellent thermal insulation and soundproofing attributes. This natural material helps the building blend in with the landscape while connecting to the region’s winemaking tradition. Alongside cork, mineral wool insulation plays a key role in enhancing energy efficiency, ensuring that the indoor environment remains comfortable throughout the year.

Structural Elements and Aesthetic Quality

Glued laminated timber is used throughout the structure, providing both strength and a warm aesthetic. This engineered wood product is valued for its high resistance to fire and contributes to the overall visual appeal of the building. Together, the materials create a cohesive look that balances modern design with traditional influences, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Interior Layout and Natural Lighting

Inside, Villa Vetta prioritizes a minimalist design that promotes comfort and function. Large windows and skylights are carefully placed to maximize natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. This design choice not only enhances the living spaces but also frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. By inviting the outdoors inside, the project fosters a sense of tranquility.

Spatial Organization and Community Connection

The villa consists of five residential modules arranged over one or two floors, each designed to maintain its individuality while contributing to the overall community. This layout encourages interaction among residents, reflecting the traditional Italian piazza where people gather. Thoughtful design details facilitate social connections, drawing occupants toward shared areas that support a sense of belonging.

The arrangement of Villa Vetta ensures that interior spaces are closely linked to their surroundings, enhancing the experience of living in this picturesque location.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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