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Reinforced Heritage with Original Bricks and Panoramic Views for Community Engagement

Authors:
Kateryna Vasylevska, Mariia Kozachuk, Mariia Pavliuk, Andriy Taran
Reinforced Heritage with Original Bricks and Panoramic Views for Community Engagement
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Original bricks are seamlessly integrated into the restoration of a historical building, enhanced by panoramic windows that connect indoor spaces with the surrounding landscape, serving as a communal guesthouse and wine tasting venue.
5 key facts about this project
01
Original bricks from the historical structure are reused in the restoration.
02
Panoramic windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
03
A community courtyard enhances social interaction among guests.
04
Minimalist additions support the existing architecture without detracting from it.
05
An internal metal beam system reinforces the structural integrity of the building.

The project titled "Brutti ma buoni" is located in the scenic region of Umbria, Italy, a landscape rich in history and cultural significance. It focuses on the adaptive reuse of existing structures, aiming to preserve their historical value while introducing new functions such as guest accommodations and areas for wine tasting. The design integrates traditional elements with modern approaches, creating a blend that respects the past while catering to current needs.

Preservation of Historical Elements
Central to the concept is the careful recreation of the main building, which has faced significant deterioration. This effort utilizes remaining original bricks in the sectional brickwork, allowing the structure to maintain its historical character. Choosing to incorporate these materials not only highlights a commitment to sustainability but also preserves the unique features that define the original architecture.

Minimalist Additions
New elements are introduced in a minimalist fashion, designed to fit within the existing fabric of the buildings without overwhelming them. These additions serve as reinforcement beams, strategically placed on the exterior or hidden within the structures. This approach ensures that the new interventions enhance the historical architecture rather than distract from it, fostering a harmonious relationship between different eras of design.

Community-Centric Spaces
The design places a strong emphasis on creating spaces that encourage community interaction. The proposed rural courtyard serves as an open area for gatherings, fostering social connections among visitors. This focus on communal experiences highlights the importance of shared spaces in architectural design and contributes to the welcoming atmosphere of the site.

Functional Integration
The incorporation of a restaurant within the main building balances the need for modern functionality with the preservation of historical elements. Internal metal beams will reinforce the structure while allowing for necessary updates. The layout includes flexible dining options and features a glazed veranda beneath the shed's roof. This area provides a cozy environment for gatherings, including a fireplace that enhances the experience for guests.

Thoughtful integration of these architectural elements results in a space that honors the historical context while responding to contemporary use. The design reflects a deep connection to the culture and landscape of Umbria, creating a setting that invites visitors to appreciate both the built environment and its natural surroundings.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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