Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Corten Steel and Terracotta Blend in a Communal Space Amidst Umbrian Vineyards

Authors:
Andy tianyue Hu, Natalie Perri
Corten Steel and Terracotta Blend in a Communal Space Amidst Umbrian Vineyards

Project in-detail

Blending Corten steel with traditional terracotta, the design creates a tranquil communal environment nestled amidst Umbria's vineyards, offering guests a unique connection to regional wine culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guest homes are arranged in a radial layout, promoting natural flow and social interaction.
02
Constructed with large operable glass facades for seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity and stunning vineyard views.
03
A below-ground wine storage and tasting room integrates immersive experiences into the design.
04
The communal piazza features a central fountain, encouraging gatherings and community events.
05
The use of local materials, including Assisi terracotta, connects the architecture to its cultural and environmental context.
The Tili Wine project in Umbria, Italy, represents a harmonious blend between architecture and the region's rich wine culture. This architectural endeavor comprises a series of guest homes designed to complement the picturesque landscape of rolling vineyards. At the heart of this project is La Piazza, a communal gathering space that fosters social interaction and engagement among guests, while seamlessly connecting them to the surrounding grape fields.

The function of the Tili Wine project extends beyond mere accommodation; it aims to create an immersive experience where visitors can unwind and appreciate the local agricultural heritage. The design emphasizes the importance of community, with shared spaces that encourage guests to partake in various activities and events. This thoughtful approach enhances the overall experience and makes the architectural designs more impactful.

Key elements of the project include the radial arrangement of guest homes around the central piazza, contributing to a fluid circulation pattern that mimics the organic growth of the vineyard. Each home incorporates large operable glass facades, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design choice invites natural light into the interiors and allows guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the vineyards throughout their stay. The circular layout of the piazza is thoughtfully designed with a fountain as a focal point, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages the gathering of guests for meals, celebrations, or leisurely conversations.

The meticulous selection of materials plays a crucial role in the project's overall design and aesthetic. The guest homes feature traditional Assisi terracotta roof tiles, a nod to the region’s cultural heritage that also provides excellent thermal insulation. Inside, oak rib ceilings introduce warmth and texture, while stone brick walls add a sense of permanence and connection to the rustic charm of Umbria. The choice of glazed terracotta brick flooring offers durability while harmonizing with the colors and textures found in the natural landscape. Incorporating Corten steel for the casework adds a contemporary touch, showcasing the project’s ability to fuse modern and traditional elements effectively.

In addition to the guest homes, the project includes a below-ground wine storage and tasting room designed to enhance the wine experience. Natural clerestory lighting brightens the space while showcasing the wine barrels, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration and appreciation of local wine production. This thoughtful integration of architecture with function reflects not only a commitment to high-design standards but also a respect for the local environment and traditions.

What sets the Tili Wine project apart is its capacity to create a sense of place and belonging. By emphasizing communal experiences and honoring the essence of its surroundings, the architecture fosters connections among guests and between guests and the landscape. This approach ensures that the project does not merely serve a utilitarian function but instead becomes a part of the cultural fabric of the region.

For those interested in delving deeper into the complexities of this architectural endeavor, exploring the various architectural plans, sections, and creative ideas behind the Tili Wine project will provide valuable insights into how such thoughtful design can enhance the experience of a beautiful natural setting. By examining these elements, readers can better appreciate how the project marries community living with an appreciation for both architecture and the cultural significance of Umbria’s viticulture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy