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Natural Stone and Xlam Volumes Framing Vineyard Views

Author:
Matteo Mizzaro
Natural Stone and Xlam Volumes Framing Vineyard Views

Project in-detail

Constructed from Xlam and complemented by a natural stone facade, two volumes rise on an artificial terrace to provide expansive views of the vineyard while serving as versatile gathering spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using an Xlam building system, enhancing structural efficiency.
02
Natural stone cladding integrates local agricultural heritage.
03
Fully glazed façades maximize natural light and landscape views.
04
Open terrace design promotes continuous outdoor accessibility.
05
Flexible use of spaces accommodates various gathering sizes.

The design is situated on a large artificial terrace that provides wide views of the countryside and vineyards. It features two distinct volumes that connect the interior spaces to the natural landscape while accommodating different functions. The overall design emphasizes a balance between the built environment and the surrounding terrain, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Volume A and Volume B

Volume A is the larger structure, designed for gatherings and events. It includes a rectangular hall that takes advantage of expansive views toward the landscape. The fully glazed walls invite natural light, enhancing the sense of openness. Volume B serves a different purpose by providing a more intimate space that houses additional services and technological systems, allowing both structures to function independently or together. Visitors can move easily between the two volumes, helped by a staircase that leads to the vineyard.

Spatial Experience

The terrace serves as an important feature, encouraging accessibility and interaction with the surrounding environment. It remains open to visitors at all times, facilitating a deeper connection with the natural setting. Pathways and gathering areas connect the internal functions of the volumes to the outdoor space, making the experience more cohesive. The relationship of the buildings to the landscape is clear, inviting exploration and engagement.

Materiality and Sustainability

The construction uses an Xlam building system for its walls and roofs, which is efficient and sustainable. The external cladding includes a natural fiber insulation system, which optimizes energy use while blending into the rural landscape. Volume A has a flat roof, while Volume B features an inclined roof designed for photovoltaic panels, showing a commitment to renewable energy. The retaining wall is made with irregularly cut natural stone, connecting the design to local farming traditions and enhancing its character.

The design reflects a careful consideration of modern building practices along with the natural surroundings. It creates spaces that encourage exploration while being rooted in the landscape. The wooden slat finishes add a tactile element that resonates with nature, providing a comforting link between the architecture and its setting.

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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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