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Green Roofs and Local Stone: A Sustainable Retreat Integrating Community and Agriculture

Author:
Murilo Amaral
Green Roofs and Local Stone: A Sustainable Retreat Integrating Community and Agriculture

Project in-detail

Constructed with local stone and a green roof, the design merges sustainable materials with agricultural landscapes to create a guesthouse that fosters community engagement and environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone for thermal performance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates a green roof to enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize structural efficiency and aesthetics.
04
Employs large glass panels for natural light and indoor-outdoor connectivity.
05
Includes communal gardens to promote sustainability and guest engagement.
The Tili Guest Home project is an architectural endeavor located in the fertile landscapes surrounding Assisi, Italy. This project represents a harmonious blend of modern design principles with the rich cultural and historical context of the region. Focused on sustainable practices, the Tili Guest Home serves as an accommodation facility that reflects the ethos of environmental stewardship while engaging with local traditions.

The structure is designed to accommodate visitors seeking a serene experience in nature, positioning itself within the agricultural backdrop of Umbria. By merging communal living spaces with private guest accommodations, the design facilitates social interaction while respecting individual privacy. The architecture effectively supports its function as both a retreat and a learning environment about local sustainable practices.

Material Selection and Utilization
One of the standout elements of the Tili Guest Home is its carefully curated material palette. The use of local stone brick for the walls provides both insulation and a visual connection to the surrounding environment. Clay tile roofing aligns with regional aesthetics while enabling efficient rainwater collection. Concrete is strategically employed in structural elements, ensuring durability and longevity. The incorporation of large glass panels promotes transparency, inviting natural light into the interior and fostering a strong connection with the outdoor landscape. Green roof systems are an innovative design choice that contribute not only to the building’s thermal performance but also enhance its ecological impact.

Distinct Architectural Approaches
Unique to the Tili Guest Home is its commitment to sustainable living integrated within the architectural framework. The design emphasizes ecological resilience through features such as rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling. This functionality supports the building's independence from conventional water systems, minimizing resource consumption. The layout includes communal gardens and vineyards that encourage guests to engage in agricultural practices, reinforcing a sense of community and educational outreach.

Additionally, the arrangement of spaces facilitates optimal cross-ventilation and natural daylighting, reducing dependency on artificial heating and cooling systems. This focus on environmental integration underscores the architectural intent to blend new construction with existing rural landscapes, respecting and promoting local biodiversity.

Engaging with the Tili Guest Home project can provide valuable insights into contemporary architectural ideas that harmonize heritage with innovation. To grasp the full scope of its design, including architectural plans, sections, and other detailed elements, a closer look at the project presentation is encouraged. This exploration will reveal the multifaceted aspects of the architecture, highlighting its sustainable objectives and cultural relevance in modern design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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