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Buried Limestone Structure Blends Seamlessly With Rolling Landscape for Elevated Tasting Experience

Author:
Uli Wagner
Buried Limestone Structure Blends Seamlessly With Rolling Landscape for Elevated Tasting Experience

Project in-detail

Nestled into the earth, the limestone-walled tasting room emerges as a communal space that fosters connection with its natural surroundings while inviting visitors to savor the region's finest wines.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building is partially buried, minimizing visual impact and enhancing its integration with the landscape.
02
Local limestone was used for the walls, reflecting the geology of the region and promoting sustainability.
03
A communal table serves as a focal point inside, encouraging interaction and shared experiences among visitors.
04
Large glass sliding doors create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the tasting experience.
05
The design incorporates cantilevered roofing elements to provide shade while maintaining natural light within the interior.
The Monte d’Oiro Wine Tasting Room is an architectural design project that embodies a thoughtful response to its natural surroundings in the Lisbon Wine Region of Portugal. This structure is not merely a building; it represents a harmonious relationship between architecture and environment, fostering an appreciation for local winemaking culture while providing a functional space for tasting and social engagement. Designed with an emphasis on integration, the space is crafted to blend seamlessly into the undulating landscape, offering visitors an immersive experience that celebrates both the art of winemaking and the beauty of the vineyard backdrop.

The core function of the Monte d’Oiro Wine Tasting Room is to serve as a communal gathering space for wine enthusiasts. This facility serves not only to showcase the wines produced on-site but also acts as a venue for social interaction and cultural exchange, reinforcing the communal nature of wine tasting. By prioritizing visitor experience, the design allows for multiple configurations of space that cater to various group sizes and events, promoting an inclusive atmosphere where people can enjoy both the wine and the scenic views.

The architectural design of the tasting room is marked by several significant elements. The building features a partially buried form that minimizes its visual footprint, effectively immersing it in the natural landscape. This approach not only respects the integrity of the environment but also elevates the overall experience by allowing unobstructed views of the vineyards and hills beyond. The choice of materials further emphasizes this relationship; local limestone, reinforced concrete, tinted oak, and marble are thoughtfully incorporated, reflecting both the region's cultural heritage and contemporary architectural practices. Each material was selected not only for aesthetic appeal but also for practical reasons such as durability and sustainability, aligning the project with modern ecological standards.

The layout of the tasting room promotes an open and inviting atmosphere. A large communal table takes center stage within the interior, encouraging social interaction among guests while creating a focal point for activities. The design also includes expansive glass sliding doors that seamlessly connect the interior with the outdoor spaces, facilitating a fluid exchange between indoor wine tasting and outdoor vineyard exploration. This integration enhances the sensory experience, allowing visitors to engage with both the wines and the enveloping landscape.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. For instance, the structure employs strategic architectural elements to respond to climatic conditions. Cantilevered roofing and thoughtfully placed overhangs provide shade, ensuring that the space remains comfortable throughout the various seasons while still allowing for ample natural light during tasting events. The use of organic forms in the structure softens its presence within the landscape, mirroring the natural contours of the vineyard and creating a sense of unity with the surrounding environment.

The Monte d’Oiro Wine Tasting Room stands as a testament to contemporary architectural principles that prioritize sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic harmony. It is a project that encourages communal engagement and offers a platform for appreciation of the winemaking process within a deeply respectful interaction with its geographical context. Readers interested in deepening their understanding of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas showcased, as they reveal the thoughtful intricacies and deliberate decisions that have shaped this exceptional tasting room.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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