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Earthen Walls and Upcycled Barrels Create a Sustainable Winery Experience

Authors:
Angeles Hevia, Antonio Hevia
Earthen Walls and Upcycled Barrels Create a Sustainable Winery Experience
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Constructed using earthen walls and integrating upcycled barrels, the design fosters sustainability while providing spacious houses and a centralized wine tasting area in the heart of Umbria.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely with locally sourced earth, enhancing thermal performance.
02
Incorporates upcycled wine barrels as unique furniture and design elements.
03
Features vaulted walls that adapt to the surrounding hilly terrain.
04
Strategically placed openings optimize natural ventilation and mountain views.
05
Includes communal terraces that foster social interaction and engagement.

La Casa del Vino is located in Perugia, Italy, and was designed for Tili Vini winery. The project emphasizes sustainability and a strong connection with the landscape. Comprising five houses, a wine tasting area, and an outdoor space that features a pool and vegetation, the design highlights how architecture can harmonize with nature while serving its function.

Design Concept
The design focuses on using traditional earthen construction techniques, which rely on locally sourced earth. This choice reflects a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The earthen walls serve a dual purpose: they provide thermal comfort and help control humidity indoors. This strategy not only reduces energy use but also minimizes the overall impact on the environment.

Spatial Configuration
The arrangement of the buildings encourages both communal and private experiences. Each house has balconies and terraces oriented to overlook the Umbrian valley, promoting outdoor activities and social interaction. The thoughtful layout creates inviting spaces for relaxation while fostering a sense of community among visitors and the winery.

Natural Ventilation
Natural ventilation plays a crucial role in the design. Small openings are carefully positioned to allow airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere without depending too much on mechanical cooling systems. Locally sourced shutters act as shading devices, reducing solar gain and improving energy efficiency, which contributes to a more pleasant indoor environment throughout the year.

Architectural Aesthetics
Architecturally, the project features vaulted walls that adapt to the natural terrain. This design element enhances the visual relationship between the buildings and their surroundings. Inside, the use of a double-height layout allows ample sunlight to fill the spaces, creating a sense of openness. The outdoor area includes a pool and landscaped gardens, highlighting the connection between indoor and outdoor settings. The wine tasting area integrates terraces and uses upcycled wine barrels for furniture, reinforcing the focus on sustainability while creating a welcoming atmosphere.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Competition organisers

Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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