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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 Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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