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Natural Stone Retreat with Panoramic Views and Local Vines

Authors:
Lina Skerlj, Emanuela Starc
Natural Stone Retreat with Panoramic Views and Local Vines

Project in-detail

With guest accommodations set underground and expansive panoramic windows framing the surrounding vineyards, the design creates an immersive experience in a natural stone retreat dedicated to wine appreciation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Guest accommodations are located underground to minimize site disruption and enhance natural views.
02
The structure incorporates expansive panoramic windows that connect interior spaces with the landscape.
03
Local vegetation and vines cultivate a unique engagement with the winemaking process.
04
A natural swimming pool serves as a communal focal point, encouraging relaxation and social interaction.
05
Stone and wood materials reflect regional building traditions while promoting sustainability.

Lapis Vinea is located in a picturesque wine-growing area influenced by the traditions of the Umbrian region. The design aligns itself with the natural landscape, creating a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of wine. Serving both as a retreat and an experience, the project encourages a close relationship between guests and the environment.

Materials and Construction

The construction utilizes local materials, primarily stone and wood, reflecting the region's historic building practices. By retaining the shape of the existing house for the dining and tasting areas, the design minimizes waste and respects local heritage. This commitment to using traditional materials supports both sustainability and authenticity in the overall design.

Spatial Organization

Guest accommodations are thoughtfully placed underground, featuring panoramic windows along the entire length of the structure. This choice preserves the integrity of the landscape while allowing an abundance of natural light to flood the interiors. The thoughtful layout enhances the experience of staying in this unique environment, blending indoor comfort with outdoor beauty.

Central Features

At the center of Lapis Vinea is a natural swimming pool that acts as a key gathering space. Surrounding the pool are several areas designed for relaxation, including a fire pit made of stone that invites social interaction. The landscape is intentionally planted with local greenery and vines, encouraging guests to engage with the processes of winemaking, from harvesting to tasting.

Dramatic Connection to Landscape

The design fosters a clear connection to the surrounding environment. By prioritizing the relationship between the built space and the landscape, Lapis Vinea offers a unique experience that feels rooted in the local culture. Views of the vineyards and natural textures enhance the overall atmosphere, creating a sense of place that resonates throughout the development.

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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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