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Uncut Stones and Wooden Framing in a Vineyard Retreat

Authors:
Michel Clipet, Chantal Lecouty, Raphaël Abraham
Uncut Stones and Wooden Framing in a Vineyard Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating uncut stones and wooden framing, the design seamlessly integrates a lookout tower and a Mediterranean garden to create a tranquil retreat for guests amid sprawling vineyards.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a lookout tower designed as a functional observatory for local winemaking.
02
Features a Mediterranean garden with checkerboard planting patterns that enhance social interaction.
03
Utilizes local plant species that require minimal watering, promoting ecological sustainability.
04
Arranges five guest homes to maximize vineyard views while ensuring privacy for each unit.
05
Connects communal spaces with a restored house that highlights historical elements.

The project is located in a beautiful landscape, inspired by the design of Roman villas. It aims to create a blend of shared and private spaces, allowing guests to socialize while also having opportunities for solitude. The design centers around a large rectangular patio that acts as the main gathering area, connecting visitors to the surrounding vineyards and nature.

Central Patio and Garden

The central patio functions as a Mediterranean garden, featuring checkerboard arrangements that form pathways and social areas. This layout enhances the visual appeal while ensuring smooth movement throughout the space. In addition to the pathways, a pond and a terrace provide spots for relaxation, inviting guests to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The garden includes local aromatic and ornamental plants that need little water, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and care for the environment.

Guest Accommodations

Five independent guest homes make up the accommodations, carefully arranged to provide good views of the vineyards while keeping each unit private. The homes are oriented based on cardinal directions—west, east, and south—allowing natural light and fresh air to enter. Each dwelling comes with a wooden terrace that extends from the main living area, promoting outdoor activities and a stronger connection to the landscape.

Common Areas

The restored house offers important communal spaces that encourage interaction among guests. On the ground floor, a tasting room is dedicated to local wines and produce, while a kitchen and shared dining area facilitate gatherings. This setup reinforces community engagement and creates an inviting atmosphere for shared meals and experiences.

Lookout Tower and Sustainability

A notable feature is the lookout tower located in the northwest section of the property. It is connected to the main building by a footbridge, acting as both a landmark and a point for enjoying the views. The tower also has a small weather station meant for local winemakers. Sustainability is a core principle in the design, focusing on good building insulation, effective waste management, and solar panel installation. The project incorporates uncut stones and wooden framing to foster a connection with the natural environment while ensuring an integration with the landscape.

The simple design of the terraces combined with abundant greenery invites a sense of calm. This setting encourages guests to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere throughout their stay.

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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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