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Ecological Retreat with Charred-Wood Siding and Natural Soils

Authors:
Yehwon Kim, Soohye Lee
Ecological Retreat with Charred-Wood Siding and Natural Soils
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With charred-wood siding and calcareous soils, the design balances sustainability and traditional Tuscan aesthetics, offering a serene retreat that emphasizes wellness and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred-wood siding enhances durability and minimal maintenance.
02
Calcareous soils used for plaster walls support local ecological harmony.
03
Each guest room features an open-air jacuzzi for outdoor relaxation.
04
The design includes versatile spaces for small events and gatherings.
05
Rooms are strategically oriented for optimal views of the surrounding landscape.

The design is located in the picturesque hills of Tuscany, where it brings together traditional charm and modern sustainable practices. The project features renovated farmhouses that create an authentic and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Careful attention has been given to how the buildings interact with the surrounding landscape, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility while enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Sustainability

Charred-wood siding plays a significant role in the design, adding both durability and aesthetic warmth. This approach not only helps blend the structures with their surroundings but also reduces carbon emissions. The charring process strengthens the wood, making it resistant to weather, pests, and UV rays. As a result, the siding can last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance, aligning with the project's goal of sustainability.

Guest Accommodations

Inside, the guest homes are organized to create a balance between private and shared spaces. Each unit has a comfortable bed area, a cozy lounge with a fireplace, a bright dining area with modern kitchen facilities, and spacious bathrooms that include walk-in closets. The furnishings combine vintage and contemporary styles, fostering a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for all guests.

Engagement with Nature

Each accommodation is designed to take advantage of the beautiful natural views. The rooms include open-air jacuzzis, providing a way for guests to connect with the outdoors. Gathering spaces are conveniently located just outside the private areas. This layout encourages social interaction among visitors, enhancing the community feel of the retreat. The inclusion of a Domus hall and courtyard accommodates small events amid the calming environment.

Ecological Features

A notable feature is the ecological pool, which resembles a natural pond and uses a regeneration system for water purification. This method relies on plants to clean the water, avoiding the need for chemicals or additives. The arrangement of the various elements in the project promotes energy efficiency while ensuring easy access throughout the site.

The thoughtful design encourages comfort and connection to the stunning Tuscan landscape, allowing guests to fully embrace their surroundings. Each detail has been carefully considered to enhance the experience, creating a peaceful retreat for those seeking a getaway.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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