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Natural Pool Retreat Surrounded by Planted Roofs and Bungalows

Author:
Joe Ingea
Natural Pool Retreat Surrounded by Planted Roofs and Bungalows
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A self-cleaning natural pool complements bungalows with planted roofs, creating a sustainable retreat in the Umbria vineyards focused on community and organic wine experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
A self-cleaning natural pool utilizes a biological filtration system for eco-friendly maintenance.
02
Bungalows are arranged around a communal piazzetta, promoting social interaction among guests.
03
Planted roofs enhance thermal regulation while blending with the natural landscape.
04
The design prioritizes privacy with strategically placed small windows in public areas.
05
A rooftop lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills.

The design for the Tili family unfolds in the heart of the Umbrian vineyards, combining relaxation with the appreciation of high-quality organic wines and local produce. The setting serves as both a retreat and a learning space, integrating traditional Italian design with modern attributes to create a welcoming environment. The focus is on fostering community while respecting the surrounding landscape.

Layout and Community Engagement

The arrangement of the site centers on a communal piazzetta, with bungalows surrounding this shared space. This layout encourages guests to interact and engage with one another. Each bungalow prioritizes privacy through small windows that limit views into the private areas, while large openings connect the indoors to the vineyard landscape. These thoughtful design choices enhance the experience of both light and nature within the living spaces.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is central to the design approach. Planted roofs help to regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heat during the summer months and keeping warmth in during colder seasons. This feature helps to improve energy efficiency across the facilities. The inclusion of a photovoltaic farm on the roof of the restaurant supports the energy needs of the site, emphasizing a commitment to using renewable energy sources.

Natural Pool Design

The natural pool is a notable aspect of the design, functioning as a self-cleaning ecosystem that eliminates the use of chemicals. Designed with biological filters, the pool maintains clean water while promoting a healthier swimming experience. This approach integrates the pool into the overall environment, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings while benefiting from eco-friendly practices.

Integration of Public and Private Spaces

The design encourages a fluid connection between public and private areas. Public spaces like the restaurant and lounge are strategically placed around the natural pool, enhancing the experience of the shared environment. Large sliding glass doors facilitate easy access and views from indoor spaces to the outdoors, allowing guests to fully appreciate the landscape. This layout aims to create a comfortable atmosphere where relaxation and social engagement can thrive.

Natural light fills the shared areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The thoughtful design allows for enjoyment of the beautiful views of the Umbrian hills, enriching the experience for all visitors.

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The Next House: USA
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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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