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Grape-Inspired Design with Aluminum Cladding and Plasterboard in a Wine Region Retreat

Authors:
Claudia Perego, Betelhem nakachew Bashu
Grape-Inspired Design with Aluminum Cladding and Plasterboard in a Wine Region Retreat

Project in-detail

Inspired by grape clusters, the design incorporates aluminum cladding and plasterboard to create a sustainable retreat for wine tasting in the heart of Umbria's scenic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the shape of grape clusters in its landscape design.
02
Renovates existing structures to promote sustainability and historical continuity.
03
Custom tasting stands are tailored specifically for local bio wines.
04
A layout that emphasizes guest privacy while maximizing mountain views.
05
Aluminum cladding enhances durability and complements the local environment.

The Tili wine guest homes are located in the picturesque region of Umbria, Italy, designed to offer a modern lodging experience while honoring the area’s rich cultural heritage. The project aims to create spaces for guests that enhance their interaction with wine tasting, blending contemporary design with traditional architecture. The overall concept revolves around merging old and new elements, ensuring that the buildings fit harmoniously into the landscape.

Preservation and Integration

The design approach emphasizes preservation by renovating two existing structures on the site. Instead of demolishing them, the project retains these buildings, which contributes to sustainability and reflects the region's history. This choice fosters a sense of continuity and belonging, enriching the experience for visitors. The newly designed guest houses complement the preserved structures, creating a balanced relationship between different architectural styles.

Landscape Design

Inspired by the shapes of grape clusters, the landscape design plays a vital role in the guest experience. A walking path leads visitors through the grounds, enhancing the wine tasting journey. Custom tasting stands are tailored for specific bio wines from the Tili Vini range, connecting the offerings to the natural surroundings. The selection of plants and colors throughout the landscape adds visual interest and draws guests deeper into the experience.

Functional Arrangements

The layout features various functional areas designed with ease of use and comfort in mind. A restaurant, indoor wine tasting spots, a playground, and guest accommodations are positioned thoughtfully to create an inviting environment. Each space serves a purpose, ensuring that guests can find relaxation while enjoying time spent in nature. This arrangement encourages interaction among visitors, enhancing the communal atmosphere.

Material Choices

The materials for construction are chosen to support both function and durability. Notable materials include aluminum substructures for cladding, plasterboard, lightweight concrete walls, and thermal and acoustic insulation. These elements are practical and contribute to the overall sustainability of the design. They align with contemporary practices aimed at minimizing environmental impact while maintaining a comfortable setting for guests.

A wide terrace extends from the main guest house, offering views of the rolling hills. Here, visitors can experience wine tasting in an open-air setting, surrounded by the natural beauty that defines Umbria.

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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

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