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Cork Facade and Local Stone Unite in a Sustainable Winery Retreat

Authors:
Dominik Moldenhauer, Julia Moldenhauer, Beyza Uzun
Cork Facade and Local Stone Unite in a Sustainable Winery Retreat
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Utilizing a facade of cork and locally sourced travertine, the design creates a sustainable retreat that enhances communal experiences within a winery setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork panels provide insulation and water resistance while enhancing local aesthetics.
02
Local travertine is incorporated for durability and regional identity.
03
The guest houses are arranged to form a central communal area.
04
Design emphasizes the reuse of materials from existing structures.
05
Photovoltaic elements are integrated into the roof for energy efficiency.

Tili Vini is located in the charming region of Umbria, Italy. It serves as both a winery and a destination for wine lovers, aiming to connect visitors with local viticulture. The design draws on the area's rich traditions while incorporating modern principles of sustainability. The goal is to create an environment where guests can enjoy communal spaces alongside private accommodations while experiencing the beauty of the landscape.

Architectural Concept

The overall concept emphasizes a blend of traditional methods and contemporary sustainability. The design transforms the winery into a retreat for wine enthusiasts. This approach creates opportunities for community interactions while maintaining a strong sense of environmental responsibility. Guest houses are arranged to form a central space, encouraging social engagement and fostering connections among visitors.

Materiality and Sustainability

A key element of the design is the reuse of materials from existing structures. This strategy reduces waste and reinforces the relationship between the building and the surrounding land. Local stone and travertine are integrated into the design, providing both durability and a visual connection to the region’s character. By using materials that resonate with its setting, the project aligns itself with local traditions.

Integration of Energy Efficiency

Attention to energy efficiency is evident throughout the design. Photovoltaic elements are incorporated into the roof systems, promoting a reduction in reliance on traditional energy sources. This decision aligns with the increasing importance of sustainable practices in modern architecture. The focus on minimizing the ecological footprint is a priority for the project, contributing to a responsible design approach.

Design Details

Various design details support the goals of functionality and aesthetic coherence. High-pressure cork panels are used on the façade, providing insulation and water resistance. This choice enhances the building's performance without compromising its visual appeal. Additionally, composite wood beams offer a lighter alternative to standard beams, further supporting sustainability efforts by requiring less material. Each detail is carefully considered to create a cohesive environment that respects the local landscape.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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