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Gabion Walls and Corten Steel Gateway Define a Sustainable Winery Experience

Author:
Evan Williams
Gabion Walls and Corten Steel Gateway Define a Sustainable Winery Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with gabion walls and a corten steel gateway, the winery blends seamlessly into the Umbria landscape while providing a sustainable space for organic wine production and guest accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gabion walls integrate local stone for enhanced landscape connectivity.
02
Corten steel elements provide durability while visually contrasting with natural surroundings.
03
Five guest homes are named after wine types to reflect the winery's focus.
04
A geothermal heat pump system ensures energy efficiency throughout the facility.
05
Large sliding glass doors facilitate natural ventilation and views of Monte Subasio.

The design project is located in Spello, Perugia, Umbria, Italy, and is centered around the Concealed winery, which produces organic wines and oils. Situated in the rolling hills near Monte Subasio, the location is both scenic and functional. The overall design concept focuses on creating a connection between the building and its natural environment while reflecting the cultural heritage of the region.

Materials and Spatial Configuration

The project includes a corridor that serves as a link between various spaces, emulating the feel of a wine cellar. A sliding corten steel gate opens into this corridor, where walls made of gabion cages filled with local stone provide both structure and aesthetic appeal. This material choice enhances the link to the landscape while allowing for sufficient airflow through perforated metal screens.

Community and Gathering Spaces

The indoor gathering area is designed for wine tastings, socializing, and dining. It features a large family-style table and a kitchen, promoting interaction among guests. Large sliding glass doors invite views of Monte Subasio inside, blurring the line between the interior and exterior. This layout maximizes natural light and creates a sense of openness that enhances the experience of those using the space.

Guest Accommodations

Five guest homes are integrated into the design, each named after different types of wine: Red Wine House, White Wine House, Rosé House, Dessert Wine House, and Sparkling Wine House. These homes are arranged to promote both community and privacy. Guests can enjoy intimate spaces while remaining connected to the surrounding vineyards, encouraging a full appreciation of the regional viticulture.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainable design strategies are evident throughout the project. A geothermal heat pump system provides efficient heating and cooling while minimizing energy costs. The green roof plays a significant role by managing rainwater runoff and improving energy performance. Operable sliding glass doors enhance natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The use of gabion cages supports passive cooling, allowing for a comfortable environment year-round.



The design concludes with thoughtfully landscaped outdoor gathering areas that invite guests to engage with the natural surroundings, deepening their connection to the winery experience.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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