Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

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
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

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

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 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