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Terracotta Facades and Natural Light Integration in a Community-Focused Retreat

Authors:
Jonathan Spicer, Sara Neuberg, Maria Bernal, Daniel Ye
Terracotta Facades and Natural Light Integration in a Community-Focused Retreat

Project in-detail

Employing terracotta facades and an undulating roof to seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape, the design offers a sustainably focused guest accommodations that fosters community interaction while optimizing natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone to create a textural connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates an undulating roof design that mimics the natural topography.
03
Features expansive glass elements to maximize natural light and views.
04
Employs passive solar design strategies for energy efficiency throughout the year.
05
Integrates landscaped terraces that foster outdoor community interactions.
The Tili Hill project, situated in Capodacqua, Italy, is an architectural endeavor that harmonizes modern design with the natural landscape. This project incorporates multiple functional spaces, including guest accommodations and communal areas, effectively catering to both individual needs and social interactions. The design is rooted in a philosophy of sustainability, emphasizing a minimal ecological footprint while enhancing community engagement.

Spatially, Tili Hill is organized across multiple levels. The basement is designated for essential services such as parking and storage. The ground floor serves as the primary social hub, with areas designated for reception, dining, and lounge activities, fostering a sense of community among occupants. The first floor consists of guest rooms, designed specifically to offer privacy while maximizing the views of the surrounding hills.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Tili Hill project is its integration of form and landscape. The building's design mimics the natural undulations of the hills, utilizing soft lines that blend into the topography. This approach not only reduces the visual impact of the structure but also enhances its thermal performance through strategic orientation and passive solar design.

The materials selected for Tili Hill draw from local resources, reinforcing a connection to the regional context. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural support, expansive glass to facilitate transparency and light, local stone, and wood for finishes that introduce warmth and texture. The choice of terracotta tiles enhances thermal properties while aligning with local architectural traditions. This careful selection is aimed at ensuring the project remains environmentally friendly while aesthetically coherent with the historic context of Capodacqua.

Architectural ideas behind Tili Hill focus on the principles of sustainability and community interaction. The building's layout encourages outdoor engagement with landscaped gardens and terraces, seamlessly connecting the internal spaces with the natural environment. Furthermore, the extensive use of glass facilitates natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial systems.

Tili Hill emerges as a significant example of contemporary architecture that prioritizes ecological sensitivity without compromising functionality. The integration of sustainable materials and attention to environmental context makes this project noteworthy within the broader landscape of architectural design in Italy.

To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of Tili Hill, consider exploring the project presentation for more comprehensive insights into its innovative approaches and solutions.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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