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Cave-Like Structure Integrating Rock and Slate in a Vineyard Setting

Author:
Ana Ayala
Cave-Like Structure Integrating Rock and Slate in a Vineyard Setting
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A cave-like wine hall designed with rock and slate seamlessly integrates into the elevated vineyard landscape, enhancing the experience of wine production and appreciation.
5 key facts about this project
01
A sunken hall design creates a unique interior experience.
02
Elevated positioning offers panoramic views of the vineyards.
03
Subtraction technique enhances the cave-like atmosphere.
04
Rock and slate materials blend the structure with its environment.
05
The layout encourages natural light throughout the space.

Quinta do Monte D'Oiro features the wine hall, O Corredor Vinho, designed to connect closely with the scenic landscape of Portugal's vineyards. The long, narrow form of the building takes advantage of the views and light, which enhances both the environment and the space's purpose. This design emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, focusing on how the structure serves the functions of wine production while fitting harmoniously into the surroundings.

Mass and Form

The massing of the building is defined by its elongated shape. This approach allows for optimal views and enters an abundance of natural light into the interior. It stands out while maintaining a modest presence that respects the landscape. Subtraction is a key element in the design, creating carved spaces that evoke a cave-like atmosphere, blending the structure with the surrounding hills.

Strategic Positioning

The wine hall is positioned on a raised corner of the site. This location provides significant views of the vineyards, enhancing the experience for those who visit. It connects the structure with the natural features of the site. The placement not only highlights the building but also relates it closely to the existing courtyard and vineyard area.

Interior Experience

Visitors begin their journey with a descent into the lower service area. As they move through the building, they encounter varying atmospheres designed to engage the senses. The flooring introduces tactile elements like rock and slate that support the cave-like theme, leading to the bright main hall. Here, stark white walls contrast with the greenery outside, drawing the eyes toward the landscape.

Light Management

Roof overhangs are incorporated to manage sunlight, improving comfort in the interior. These elements provide shade during warm months while creating a sense of visual depth. They help establish a clear connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall experience of the building.

At its core, Quinta do Monte D'Oiro exemplifies careful design that highlights the relationship between architecture and nature. The wine hall, through its thoughtful approach to form and function, celebrates the beauty of its surroundings, culminating in a space that not only serves practical needs but also enriches the visitor experience.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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