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Biomorphic Design in Local Stone and Terracotta for Agritourism Experience

Authors:
Libby Pelzel, Luis Guevara, Rachel North, Ellis Hudson
Biomorphic Design in Local Stone and Terracotta for Agritourism Experience
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Utilizing biomorphic design principles and local stone alongside terracotta, the structures create an immersive agritourism hub that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding olive groves and local heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biomorphic design mimics the form of an olive branch, enhancing spatial flow.
02
Constructed using locally sourced stone for durability and context relevance.
03
Integrated rainwater collection systems support sustainable water management.
04
Courtyards designed as key gathering spaces encourage community interaction.
05
Terracotta roofing reflects traditional architectural practices of the region.

### Concept Overview

The Brucatura project is situated in the Serra d'Aire e Candeeiros region, an area known for its rolling landscapes and historical olive groves. This design reflects a commitment to honoring the local environment and the cultural significance of olive oil production, which is deeply embedded in the identity of the region. The term "Brucatura," referring to the olive harvest, reinforces the project's thematic focus on the relationship between architecture, nature, and community.

### Spatial Organization

The design incorporates a biomorphic approach, echoing the form of an olive branch. The layout features staggered volumes that cascade down the hillside, allowing structures to blend naturally with the topography. The circulation pattern, resembling the trunk of an olive branch with "olive nodes" extending to distinct programmatic areas, facilitates both movement and engagement with the landscape. Courtyards framed by individual olive trees create intimate spaces that enrich the visitor experience while promoting social interaction.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A carefully selected material palette reflects the local heritage and prioritizes sustainability. Natural stone is employed for walls and landscaping, ensuring a connection to the earth, while terracotta tiles on the roofs honor traditional building methods and enhance thermal comfort. Locally sourced woods, including oak, feature prominently in window shutters and interior finishes, contributing warmth and texture. Stained concrete is used for structural elements and outdoor spaces, establishing a link between the built environment and the region's olive groves. Additionally, the integration of water cisterns for rainwater collection exemplifies a proactive approach to resource management, emphasizing the project’s sustainable ethos.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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