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Natural Stone Walls and Glass Facades Elevate Guest Houses in a Scenic Valley Setting

Authors:
Wilfred Leung, Siyao Zheng, Zack Lenza
Natural Stone Walls and Glass Facades Elevate Guest Houses in a Scenic Valley Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating natural stone walls and expansive glass facades, the design creates a seamless connection with the stunning Umbrial Valley while providing functional guest accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates large glass walls to enhance views of the Umbrial Valley.
02
Utilizes natural stone walls for structural integrity and aesthetics.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for social interaction among guests.
04
Employs brick screens to create private garden enclaves.
05
Integrates sustainability principles through minimal landscaping practices.
The Tili Terrace project is an architectural development situated in the picturesque Umbrial Valley, designed to create a seamless dialogue between built forms and the surrounding landscape. The project comprises a series of guest houses, a wine tasting room, and communal gardens, all organized to foster interaction while respecting individual privacy. The design prioritizes the integration of natural elements and materials, resulting in a cohesive experience that highlights the local geology and climate.

A key aspect of Tili Terrace is its spatial organization. The central courtyard serves as the main gathering area, connecting the various structures and providing a communal space for visitors. Each guest house is strategically placed to ensure unobstructed views of the valley, with large glass walls that promote a strong relationship with the external environment. The wine tasting room is positioned on an elevated plane, allowing for panoramic vistas while inviting natural light into the space.

The project stands out due to its sustainable design approach and attention to materiality. The use of natural stone for walls reinforces the architectural integrity of the buildings while merging them with the landscape. Glass is predominant in the guest accommodations, allowing for transparency that enhances the occupants' connection to their surroundings. Brick screens create enclaves within the garden areas, ensuring privacy without isolating these spaces from the landscape. Metal elements provide structural support and a modern aesthetic, contributing to the overall design language.

The landscaping of Tili Terrace is intentionally minimalistic, utilizing existing vegetation to maintain the natural contours of the site. This approach minimizes ecological disruption and emphasizes the intrinsic beauty of the area. The project further enhances visitor experiences by thoughtfully arranging communal gathering spaces, fostering social interaction without compromising individual privacy in the guest accommodations.

Overall, Tili Terrace embodies a comprehensive architectural response to its geographical context, where careful design decisions promote both functionality and aesthetic harmony. For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that inform this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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