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Translucent Stone Facade and Sculptural Wooden Elements in a Vineyard Retreat

Authors:
David González Martín, Alberto Valverde De Miguel, Olga Tykhonova
Translucent Stone Facade and Sculptural Wooden Elements in a Vineyard Retreat
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A sculptural wooden staircase spirals through a translucent stone facade, enhancing the connection between interior spaces and the surrounding vineyard, while serving as a unique wine hotel that invites guests to immerse in the local winemaking culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent stone facade maximizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
02
Sculptural spiral staircase crafted from locally sourced wood enhances interior circulation.
03
Asymmetrical layout allows for unobstructed vineyard views from every guest room.
04
Biophilic design elements create seamless indoor-outdoor connections throughout the property.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and a contemporary aesthetic that blends with the landscape.

The project, Decanter, is an architectural design for a wine hotel set within a vineyard landscape. It embodies a connection between contemporary architecture and the historical significance of winemaking, all while prioritizing sustainability and environmental integration. This project serves as a hospitality space that accommodates visitors, providing facilities such as hotel rooms, a restaurant, and a spa. Decanter emphasizes a cohesive experience between the built environment and the natural terrain, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the vineyard setting.

Spatial organization is a crucial aspect of the design. The main structure comprises multiple levels, with each floor connected to the surrounding landscape through terraces and large fenestrations. The use of materials such as stone, glass, and wood reinforces the project's commitment to eco-friendly practices, drawing upon local resources that reflect the region's character. The wooden central staircase is a notable design element, reflecting the organic shapes present in grapevines and enhancing the flow of movement within the space.

Sustainability and contextual integration differentiate Decanter from typical hospitality designs. Rather than imposing a uniform architectural form, this project uses asymmetrical layouts that respect the site’s topography. The translucent facade reduces energy consumption by maximizing natural light while maintaining thermal comfort. The seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces encourages guests to engage with the exceptional views of the vineyards, fostering a deeper connection with the winemaking heritage.

The design also emphasizes functional adaptability. Each space is carefully planned to serve multiple purposes. The restaurant features an open layout that connects with outdoor dining areas, allowing guests to enjoy meals while taking in the surrounding vineyard. The spa, with its calming water features, is designed to provide a serene atmosphere that promotes relaxation. The application of biophilic design principles enhances the user experience, encouraging a sense of well-being that aligns with the tranquil environment.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements can provide additional insights into how Decanter achieves its goals of sustainability, aesthetic integration, and user-centric design. Interested readers are encouraged to review these components to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project’s architectural ideas and approaches.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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