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Reinforced Earth Walls and Grapevine Pergolas in Vineyard Retreat

Author:
Joanna Zimna
Reinforced Earth Walls and Grapevine Pergolas in Vineyard Retreat
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Walls of reinforced earth and outdoor pergolas adorned with grapevines create a unique integration with the vineyard landscape, providing a serene retreat for guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reinforced earth walls blend with the natural landscape for aesthetic cohesion.
02
Grapevine-covered pergolas enhance outdoor guest experiences and provide shade.
03
The design maintains unobtrusive sightlines to maximize vineyard views.
04
Strategic use of color reflects local earth tones, enhancing environmental integration.
05
Structural stability is ensured through composite columns and beams for seismic resilience.

The Monte d'Oiro vineyard hotel is located in a picturesque vineyard landscape, designed to blend with nature while providing a peaceful escape for visitors. The architecture reflects an understanding of the site’s unique character, focusing on creating spaces that feel connected to the surroundings. The overall design concept prioritizes views of the vineyard, enhancing the experience for those who stay.

Site Integration

The hotel’s design aligns thoughtfully with the existing road and vineyard area, promoting a visual connection with the landscape. The structure is positioned in a natural decline, which helps it remain low-profile and unobtrusive. This choice ensures that the beautiful vineyard views are not overshadowed by the building itself, allowing guests to enjoy the scenery and the sense of calm that it brings.

Material Choices

Material selection plays an important role in the overall design. The walls are made of reinforced earth, contributing to a natural look that harmonizes with the land. This material reflects the earthy colors found in the environment, enhancing the hotel’s connection to its setting. Additionally, the use of wood accents throughout the design adds warmth, making the space feel inviting and family-friendly.

Design Elements

Prominent design features include pergolas situated in front of hotel rooms and on terraces, which are covered in lush grapevines. These structures provide shade and highlight the hotel’s relationship with wine production. This design encourages guests to spend time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of the vineyard. It also fosters a greater appreciation of the local landscape and culture, enriching the overall visitor experience.

Structural Considerations

The design incorporates considerations for seismic activity, using reinforced composite columns and beams to ensure stability. This aspect of the construction reflects careful planning to address safety while maintaining a focus on aesthetic appeal. The result is a hotel that stands strong within its natural context and can withstand the demands of its environment.

The design concludes with inviting outdoor spaces where guests can relax under shaded pergolas, surrounded by greenery that connects the architecture to the vineyard. This arrangement creates a pleasant atmosphere that draws visitors into the charm of the landscape and the story of the place.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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