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Sustainable Living in the Apulian Countryside with Olive Wood and Natural Ventilation

Sustainable Living in the Apulian Countryside with Olive Wood and Natural Ventilation
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Utilizing locally sourced olive wood and integrating natural ventilation, the design reinterprets traditional forms to create a compact micro-home that addresses contemporary sustainability needs in the Apulian countryside.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes olive wood sourced directly from local groves affected by Xylella fastidiosa.
02
Incorporates a unique roof design that enhances natural ventilation for energy efficiency.
03
Features modular construction, allowing for flexibility and future adaptation of living space.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Showcases a slate-like facade that offers both weather resistance and aesthetic continuity.

## Overview

Located in the Apulian countryside amidst ancient olive groves, the micro-home O-live addresses urgent agricultural challenges, notably the impact of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa. This design integrates modern amenities with principles of sustainability and adaptability, aiming to revitalize the rural landscape. The structure serves as a contemporary response to local environmental issues while fostering a connection between inhabitants and their natural surroundings.

## Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout of O-live prioritizes functionality and aesthetic experience, featuring a living area that maximizes natural light through expansive glass windows that frame views of the landscape. The kitchen and dining spaces are designed to encourage community interaction while offering a practical layout. The sleeping quarters maintain a compact, comfortable design that establishes an organic connection to the exterior. A central service block consolidates essential amenities, promoting an efficient spatial flow that supports multifunctionality in response to users' varying needs.

## Materiality and Construction Techniques

The material palette prominently features olive wood and concrete, reflecting the project’s commitment to sustainability. Olive wood, sourced locally, is chosen for its durability and thermal comfort, while concrete serves as the structural backbone, designed with energy-efficient insulation. The construction is executed in phases to minimize waste and utilize local resources effectively. A distinctive roof design enhances natural ventilation and thermoregulation, while the facade's slate-like appearance not only contributes to the home's modern aesthetic but also ensures resilience against weather and thermal regulation. The incorporation of modular techniques allows for adaptability, enabling future expansions or adjustments to meet changing needs.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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