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Natural Pool and Arched Windows Framing Italian Culinary Retreat

Author:
Jaqueline Symalla
Natural Pool and Arched Windows Framing Italian Culinary Retreat

Project in-detail

Arched windows invite natural light into a thoughtfully arranged space of sandstone and travertine, creating a serene guest house alongside a natural pool that emphasizes relaxation and connection to the Umbrian landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Arched windows create continuous views of the surrounding Umbrian landscape.
02
Sandstone and travertine are used to blend the structures with the natural environment.
03
Private loggias provide secluded outdoor spaces for relaxation.
04
A natural pool integrates seamlessly with outdoor living areas.
05
Common areas are designed to foster social interaction among guests.

The Tily Wine Italian Guest House is located in the scenic region of Umbria, Italy. Known for its cultural richness and stunning landscapes, the design focuses on creating an authentic Italian experience. The concept blends guest accommodation with community spaces, promoting social interactions while also allowing for moments of privacy. The architecture emphasizes the spirit of la bella vita, inviting guests to enjoy nature and local wine.

Architectural Style

The design takes a modern approach characterized by clean lines and open spaces. Large arched windows and high ceilings invite natural light into expansive living areas. This connection between indoor and outdoor environments encourages guests to immerse themselves in the beautiful Umbrian surroundings. The careful arrangement of spaces facilitates both communal gatherings and private moments, reflecting the Italian tradition of dining and socializing outdoors.

Material Usage

Regional materials are employed to enhance the guest house's connection to the local landscape. Sandstone, limestone, and travertine are chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. These materials complement the colors and textures found in the natural setting, reinforcing a sense of place. Their use also aligns with sustainable practices, ensuring the structures will endure while maintaining their visual integrity.

Spatial Arrangement

Guests enter through an arched gate, leading into a welcoming inner courtyard. Inside, the layout emphasizes a smooth flow between communal and private areas. Each house features comfortable lounge spaces that promote social engagement, equipped with seating that encourages conversation. Private loggias offer secluded spots for relaxation, striking a balance between community and solitude.

Outdoor Integration

Outdoor spaces play a vital role in the design, featuring terraces and gardens that encourage guests to engage with nature. A sundeck beneath an olive tree serves as a gathering point for activities like wine tasting. A natural pool enhances outdoor living, blending with the surrounding greenery. Thoughtful lighting design throughout creates a warm atmosphere, adapting to the needs of day and night.

A centrally located fireplace adds warmth and serves as a gathering spot within the living areas, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. This detail promotes social connections among guests and underscores the comfortable, home-like quality of the spaces.

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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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