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Vines and Olive Trees Enhanced by Traditional Brick in a Community-Focused Retreat

Author:
Marita Maćkowiak
Vines and Olive Trees Enhanced by Traditional Brick in a Community-Focused Retreat

Project in-detail

Rooted in traditional brick preservation and intertwined with olive trees and vines, the design creates a community-focused retreat that blends private residences with shared outdoor spaces for social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to integrate existing brick structures with new construction elements.
02
Features a pergola covered in vines to enhance communal outdoor areas.
03
Preserves native olive trees while introducing additional plantings for biodiversity.
04
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
05
Arranges private houses strategically to optimize mountain views and natural light.

The project is located in an Italian village, where it presents a modern approach to living spaces that connect well with the beautiful landscape. The design focuses on creating a relationship between private homes and shared areas, making sure each part meets the needs of the community while enhancing the overall living experience.

Spacial Organization

The design features a series of private houses, arranged carefully to take advantage of the views of the surrounding mountains. Each home is positioned to allow natural light in and provide privacy for residents at the same time. Shared spaces like relaxation zones and outdoor party areas are designed to encourage interaction among residents. This is an essential part of village life, where social connections are important.

Integration of Greenery

Greenery is a key aspect of the site design. Existing trees are preserved, and new plantings, such as olive and citrus trees, add color and life to the environment. A pergola covered with vines stretches over common areas, providing shade for gatherings and activities, such as wine testing. This feature adds charm and reinforces the cultural traditions of the region.

Sustainability Features

The approach includes sustainable solutions that demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. Solar panels are placed on the southwestern slopes of the roofs to improve energy efficiency. A rainwater collection system gathers and filters water, which is then reused for the pool and toilets. These strategies show a focus on conserving resources and support a more sustainable way of living.

Contextual Materiality

Materials used in the project are carefully chosen to reflect the surrounding context. Existing brick buildings have been preserved and thoughtfully integrated into the new design. Bricks from demolished structures are repurposed, aligning with sustainable practices while respecting the historical character of the village.

The arrangement of private spaces alongside communal areas creates a functional environment. It offers residents a rich living experience, one that fosters enjoyment of the surrounding natural landscape while encouraging social interactions among the community.

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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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