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Slicing Concrete Volumes Framing Vineyard Views with Plywood Elements

Authors:
Chee yuen Choy, Hong Ahn, Ming tse Wang
Slicing Concrete Volumes Framing Vineyard Views with Plywood Elements

Project in-detail

The unique slicing of concrete volumes establishes dynamic spaces that frame expansive vineyard views, enhancing the experience of wine tasting and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic slicing technique creates multiple planar surfaces for enhanced light interaction.
02
Concrete volumes are strategically oriented to frame vineyard views from various angles.
03
Plywood walls provide support and contribute to the overall aesthetic coherence.
04
Design concept is rooted in the abstraction of human aura as a gathering element.
05
The layout fosters community interaction while promoting a connection to the landscape.

The design of monte Union is set against the backdrop of Monte d'Oiro, on a hillside that provides impressive views of the surrounding vineyards. It serves as a space for wine tasting and social gatherings, rooted in the concept of human aura. This idea represents the energy people radiate when they come together. It influences the way the space is organized, aiming to foster connections and interactions among visitors.

Spatial Layout
The creation of monte Union began with careful observation of human behavior. The notion of auras was represented as bubbles of energy in various sizes, which informed the building’s design. This approach led to a unique architectural form that diverges from standard rectangular structures. The layout encourages communal interactions while highlighting the relationship between the users and the outdoor landscape.

Connection to Surroundings
The building is oriented to the south and west, allowing for clear views of the vineyards. This layout enhances the visual experience and creates a link between the interior space and nature. By framing the surrounding landscape, the design draws people in, inviting them to engage with their environment while experiencing the wine tasting offerings.

Construction Elements
The structure relies on a thoughtful selection of materials for durability and performance. Concrete is used for the roofs to resist torque effectively, while solid walls are built to handle shear forces. Plywood is incorporated into the wall assemblies to provide necessary support. This combination of materials meets the structural demands while contributing to a cohesive visual experience.

Experience and Atmosphere
The interior of monte Union prioritizes social interaction, providing spaces for group activities centered around wine tasting. The building employs a slicing technique that creates multiple surfaces, enabling better light flow and visual access. This design choice results in a welcoming atmosphere and allows visitors to enjoy the tasting experience while remaining connected to the picturesque vineyard.

Natural light pours through openings, casting dynamic shadows that alter throughout the day, creating a lively and inviting environment within monte Union.

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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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