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Natural Pool and Cross Laminated Timber Homes in the Umbrian Landscape

Authors:
Jaime Cunha, Maria Ginestal machado, Sara Gonçalves
Natural Pool and Cross Laminated Timber Homes in the Umbrian Landscape

Project in-detail

Cross laminated timber homes harmonize with the Umbrian landscape, surrounding a natural pool and reflecting a commitment to sustainability while providing comfortable guest accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber construction reduces construction time and waste.
02
Natural water recycling systems minimize resource usage and promote sustainability.
03
Five modular guest homes offer unique privacy while accommodating groups.
04
The design integrates local landscape colors to enhance visual harmony.
05
A natural swimming pool provides a chemical-free recreational option for guests.

Tili Vini Italy is a boutique winery located in the Umbrian valley near Assisi, focusing on the production of organic wines and a commitment to sustainable practices. The design of the TILI 23 project emphasizes its connection to the surrounding landscape. It uses a color palette that reflects the earthy tones of the area, allowing the structure to blend with its environment. The overall concept aims to create a place that serves both the winery's needs and the experience of its visitors.

Design Concept

The main building serves several vital functions. It includes a reception area, a room for wine tasting, dining spaces, a kitchen, a back office, and areas for staff. This layout is designed to foster interactions among guests while efficiently managing winery operations. The direct connection between the main building and the outdoor areas encourages visitors to engage with both the winery and its grounds.

Guest Home Organization

Five guest homes are located near the main structure, organized along a pathway that leads to a natural swimming pool. Each home offers privacy and direct access to communal spaces. The design of these homes incorporates essential features such as an entrance, ensuite bedroom, living area, and kitchenette. This modular layout is intended to accommodate small groups, making it functional and efficient.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a core principle of the project. Cross Laminated Timber is used as the primary construction material. This choice reduces waste and speeds up assembly because it is prefabricated. Additionally, materials from existing structures are repurposed, supporting a circular economy and minimizing ecological impact.

Environmental Strategies

The design includes systems for rainwater and greywater recycling, which help conserve water. This practice addresses the growing need for responsible water management in architecture. Furthermore, solar panels are incorporated into the design to use renewable energy, further enhancing the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Outdoor gathering spaces invite guests to enjoy views of the landscape. These areas are carefully integrated into the overall design, encouraging communal activities while appreciating the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

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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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