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Limestone Facades and Charred Wood Elements in a Vineyard-Focused Guest Retreat

Authors:
Michel Clipet, Chantal Lecouty, Raphaël Abraham
Limestone Facades and Charred Wood Elements in a Vineyard-Focused Guest Retreat

Project in-detail

Characterized by its limestone facades and charred wood elements, the design offers a seamless integration with the vineyard landscape, creating tranquil guest accommodations that foster a unique connection to the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone facades enhance thermal performance while blending with the rural landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a textured aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and rapid assembly.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while creating unique exterior lines.
05
Landscaped gardens feature native Mediterranean plants, promoting local biodiversity.
The Villa Umbria project is set in the idyllic landscape of Tili Wine, Italy, and is characterized by its integration of modern architectural principles with traditional Roman villa aesthetics. This architectural design serves a dual purpose as a guest accommodation facility and communal space, allowing for both private retreats and collaborative interactions among its occupants. The structure is strategically positioned to take advantage of the site’s natural beauty while promoting a strong connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

The primary function of the project is to provide a welcoming space for guests, enhancing their engagement with the surrounding landscape of vineyards and gardens. The layout includes five individual guest houses encircling a central communal area, which houses a tasting room and dining space. This arrangement not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that each dwelling maintains its own private atmosphere, promoting tranquility and comfort for visitors.

Architectural Planning and Layout

The project layout reflects a careful consideration of both spatial relationships and environmental conditions. The guest units are designed to be accessible and interconnected through landscaped pathways that weave through gardens and near a small pond, facilitating both leisure and exploration. Each unit prioritizes natural light through expansive windows, designed to enhance the experience of staying surrounded by nature. The communal area acts as a hub for social gatherings, reinforcing connectivity among guests.

Materials and Sustainability

Material selection is fundamental to the project’s design approach. Local limestone serves as a predominant exterior finish, echoing traditional construction methods while providing durability. Wood, likely from native species, is used in significant architectural elements, including structural support and terrace coverings. The inclusion of glass not only ensures energy efficiency through passive solar gain but also blurs the boundary between interior and exterior spaces. Moreover, the integration of sustainable technologies, such as solar panels, solidifies the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility within architectural design.

Innovative Architectural Elements

Villa Umbria also features distinctive architectural elements that enhance both its aesthetic appeal and functionality. An observation tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, adding a visual landmark while providing guests with a space for reflection and enjoyment of the scenery. Landscaping is designed intentionally, incorporating native flora to support local biodiversity while complementing the overall architectural language.

In summary, the Villa Umbria project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that marries modernity with tradition. The design fosters interaction within various shared spaces while allowing for personal retreats. For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural details in this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of Villa Umbria.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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