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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

Project in-detail

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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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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