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Reclaimed Bricks and Glazed Facades Forming a Rural Retreat

Authors:
Davide Franchi, Matteo Magistrato
Reclaimed Bricks and Glazed Facades Forming a Rural Retreat
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Reclaimed bricks from local demolitions create a central pergola that connects private gardens and glazed facades, establishing a modern retreat for guests immersed in the surrounding rural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed bricks from local buildings form the central pergola.
02
Each accommodation unit features a southeast-oriented glazed facade.
03
Private gardens ensure guest intimacy while enhancing outdoor access.
04
The design references traditional barn forms unique to the region.
05
Sustainable practices focus on material reuse throughout the project.

The recent design is placed in a rural landscape known for its wide fields and agricultural surroundings. The project focuses on blending the built environment with nature, creating spaces that allow for privacy while still inviting guests to connect with the outdoors. Each accommodation unit features large glass facades, ensuring plenty of natural light and views of the private gardens. This setup offers a peaceful experience for those staying there.

Design Inspiration

The design draws ideas from local agricultural structures, especially the forms of traditional barns. This influence leads to an appearance that feels familiar yet updated. The shape of the guest houses reflects an essential quality of the region’s architecture. It balances modern needs with the historical characteristics of the area.

Material Usage

A central element of the design is a pergola made from bricks that have been reclaimed from older buildings. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and respects the local context. The pergola connects different parts of the complex, such as the tasting area and gardens, making the movement between spaces easy and enjoyable.

Spatial Layout

The layout is carefully planned to allow for accessible movement throughout the area. Each accommodation is oriented to face southeast, maximizing sunlight while providing secluded outdoor spaces. Guests benefit from private gardens that extend the living area beyond the walls of the units. This arrangement reinforces the connection between the interior and the natural environment.

The overall design, with its large windows and thoughtfully arranged gardens, creates a calm retreat that encourages relaxation and socializing. The integration of nature has been a key focus, resulting in spaces that honor the surrounding rural landscape while serving the needs of guests.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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