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Underground Lodging with Panoramic Windows and Natural Stone Elements

Authors:
Lina Skerlj, Emanuela Starc
Underground Lodging with Panoramic Windows and Natural Stone Elements
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With underground lodging designed around panoramic windows and local stone, the getaway offers an immersive experience in the heart of a wine-growing region, merging relaxation with nature's essence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Underground sleeping areas enhance privacy and minimize visual impact.
02
Panoramic windows offer uninterrupted views of the surrounding vineyards.
03
Natural swimming pool serves as a central communal gathering space.
04
Landscaping incorporates local plants and vines for an immersive experience.
05
Use of local stone and wood reflects traditional Umbrian craftsmanship.

Lapis Vinea is located in a scenic wine-growing region, surrounded by vineyards and fertile land. The design focuses on creating a getaway that blends with the natural landscape while honoring local traditions. With an emphasis on privacy and community, the setup is crafted to enhance the experience of both individuals and groups.

Materials and Craftsmanship
-
Local materials are central to the design, particularly stone and wood, both of which are traditional in the Umbrian area. These materials help root the structure in its environment while connecting it to the region's agrarian history. The choice of materials is deliberate, showcasing craftsmanship that respects time-honored building practices.

Architectural Layout
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The existing house has been preserved, providing a degustation and dining space that reflects the site's history and reduces costs. Guest accommodations are placed underground, allowing them to remain discreet within the landscape. This choice enhances guest privacy and minimizes the visual effects on the surroundings, creating a peaceful environment that invites relaxation.

Spatial Experience
-
Panoramic windows are a key feature in the guest areas, allowing plenty of natural light inside and offering clear views of the vineyards. This design element strengthens the connection between indoor spaces and the outside world, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. Central to the layout is a natural swimming pool, supported by various seating areas and a stone fire pit, which encourage guests to gather and interact.

Landscaping and Interaction
-
Landscaping incorporates local plants and vines, which highlights the agricultural identity of the site and lets guests interact more closely with the environment. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also enriches the overall guest experience, making it a journey from vine to wine. The design carefully balances built structures with natural elements, celebrating the true essence of the region.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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MICROHOME
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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