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Removable Ground Screws With Large Glazing in a Tranquil Rural Retreat

Author:
Chinh Vu
Removable Ground Screws With Large Glazing in a Tranquil Rural Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing removable ground screws and expansive glazing, the design integrates seamlessly with the Umbrian landscape, offering a tranquil setting for guest accommodations that encourages a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Removable ground screws minimize environmental impact and allow soil recovery.
02
Large glazing offers panoramic views of the Umbrian hills and winery.
03
Elevated wooden piers provide respectful access to the natural terrain.
04
Each guest house is oriented toward sunrise or sunset for optimal light.
05
Photovoltaic systems support renewable energy use on site.

Tili Wine Italy Guest Homes is located in the peaceful Umbrian countryside. Designed as a retreat for those wishing to escape busy urban life, the site includes five guest houses and a community space. The design focuses on reconnecting with nature, inviting guests to slow down and embrace their surroundings.

Concept and Orientation

The layout is thoughtfully planned to align with the landscape, with each guest house positioned for optimal views of either sunrise or sunset. This orientation makes the most of natural light throughout the day. The arrangement encourages a calming environment, enhancing the experience of being immersed in nature.

Access and Circulation

Access to the site is through two parallel wooden piers that connect the different buildings. These piers are elevated above the ground, helping to protect the surrounding ecosystem. This design choice supports easy movement between spaces while respecting the natural terrain, allowing the area’s beauty to remain intact.

Structural Innovations

Instead of traditional concrete foundations, removable ground screws are used for the guest houses. This choice minimizes environmental impact and allows the soil beneath to recover. By implementing this method, the design emphasizes sustainability and a commitment to reducing the overall ecological footprint of the project.

Natural Light and Views

Large windows are a significant feature in the guest houses and community area, creating connections to the outdoor landscape. These windows allow for plenty of natural light and provide sweeping views of the hills and the Tili winery. The design encourages the outside world to be part of the guest experience, enhancing the sense of comfort and space.


Incorporating photovoltaic systems further shows the focus on sustainability, allowing the buildings to harness renewable energy. Each aspect of the design contributes to an awareness of nature while providing a tranquil setting for visitors. The balance of functionality and aesthetics creates a nurturing environment that invites guests to take a step back from their fast-paced lives.

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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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