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Courtyard Retreats Embracing Sun Orientation and Vineyard Views

Author:
Laszlo Baranyay
Courtyard Retreats Embracing Sun Orientation and Vineyard Views
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Elevated guesthouses oriented to capture morning light and framed by vineyard views create a unique retreat experience in the Umbrian Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated guesthouses mimic the form of local grapevines.
02
Orientation maximizes sunlight exposure for each room throughout the day.
03
Pathways connect guesthouses to communal areas, enhancing exploration.
04
Openings are designed for natural light without sacrificing privacy.
05
Curated courtyard spaces provide intimate gathering areas for guests.

The SOL at Tili Vini project is located in the picturesque Umbrian Valley and integrates closely with the natural landscape while honoring the area's agricultural heritage. The focus is on creating an experience that invites guests to connect with both the land and the wine-making process. Inspired by the Roman sun god, SOL, the design considers the sun's path, using light to enhance the experience throughout various times of the day.

Design Concept

The concept behind SOL at Tili Vini revolves around the connection between the built forms and their surroundings. Guesthouses are oriented towards the east, allowing them to capture the morning sun. In contrast, communal spaces like the wine-tasting room are located to the west, providing beautiful views of sunsets. This strategic placement encourages a journey through the site that engages visitors while highlighting the relationship between time, light, and space.

Architectural Arrangement

The layout consists of guesthouses elevated above the ground. This elevation references the nearby grapevine structures and minimizes the impact on the land. Each guesthouse is positioned for privacy but still maintains a connection to the communal areas, promoting interaction among visitors. The arrangement fosters a balance between solitude and community, allowing guests to enjoy both private retreats and shared experiences.

Natural Integration

Connection to the landscape is a key aspect of the design. Pathways weave through the property, linking guesthouses and communal spaces, which helps blend the vineyard with the built environment. This thoughtful integration encourages guests to explore and enjoy the surrounding beauty. The landscape is shaped to frame views and create a welcoming experience, inviting visitors to transition smoothly between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Light and Privacy

The design of the guesthouses incorporates carefully placed openings to allow natural light in while ensuring privacy. These openings are recessed to enhance light penetration while providing a sense of comfort. As guests look out from the residences, they enjoy unobstructed views of the vineyards, creating a connection to the landscape that is both calming and engaging.

Guests are welcomed into a landscaped forecourt that leads to a secluded courtyard. Here, they can enjoy moments of tranquility, such as sipping morning coffee surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Umbrian Valley.

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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?

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