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Ceramic Facades and Exposed Brick Harmonizing with Vineyard Landscapes in a Contemporary Wine Retreat

Author:
Steven Anton
Ceramic Facades and Exposed Brick Harmonizing with Vineyard Landscapes in a Contemporary Wine Retreat

Project in-detail

Integrating ceramic facades and exposed brick with the natural topography of a Portuguese vineyard, the wine hotel offers a serene retreat designed to enhance guest wellbeing and foster community connections.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates locally sourced ceramics to reflect regional architectural traditions.
02
Exposed brick facades are strategically used to enhance thermal performance and aesthetics.
03
A central courtyard connects multiple buildings, fostering community interaction and natural ventilation.
04
The layout is oriented to optimize vineyard views, immersing guests in the landscape.
05
Wellness facilities are integrated into the design, promoting relaxation and wellbeing amid the natural setting.
The Monte d'Oiro Wine Hotel project embodies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, finely tuning the relationship between built structures and their natural surroundings. Nestled within a scenic wine-producing region, this architectural endeavor integrates seamlessly into the landscape, creating a unique retreat designed for both relaxation and exploration. The design captures the essence of its locale, with an emphasis on local tradition, sustainability, and user-centered experiences.

At the heart of the Monte d'Oiro Wine Hotel is its function as a comprehensive retreat that caters not only to wine enthusiasts but also to visitors seeking tranquility in a serene environment. The project serves multiple purposes, including accommodation, wellness, and social interaction. This multifunctionality is reflected in the spatial organization and layout of the buildings. The various structures are thoughtfully interconnected, promoting ease of movement and enhancing the overall experience for guests. Public spaces such as the conference hall and treatment rooms are oriented to maximize views of the picturesque vineyards, reinforcing the wine retreat theme and allowing guests to feel immersed in the natural beauty that surrounds them.

The architectural design approaches utilized in this project are particularly notable. One significant aspect is the careful orientation of the hotel buildings along the main vineyard axis. This orientation not only enhances the views from key facilities but also emphasizes the natural landscape, creating a direct visual connection between the guests and the vineyard. Each building features central courtyards and patio spaces, which invite natural light and airflow into the structures, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments and fostering a sense of openness.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the identity of the Monte d'Oiro Wine Hotel. The design integrates local materials such as ceramics and traditional roof tiles, echoing the regional architectural vernacular while providing a sense of authenticity. The use of exposed brick adds texture and warmth to the facades, creating a dialogue with the natural surroundings. Expansive glass surfaces are strategically placed throughout the buildings to ensure that natural light floods the interiors, which not only reduces energy consumption but enhances the overall ambiance of the spaces. Moreover, the combination of wood and steel in structural elements conveys durability while imparting a sense of modern elegance.

The unique design approach is further exemplified through the implementation of community-oriented spaces including an event square that serves as the social heart of the hotel. Designed for gatherings and interactions, this area fosters a sense of community among guests and provides a platform for cultural exchange. The incorporation of wellness amenities such as a gym and treatment rooms speaks to a contemporary understanding of hospitality, with guest well-being at the forefront of the project.

The integration of architectural plans and sections into the design process allows a deeper exploration of how these spaces interact. Each consideration reflects a comprehensive understanding of the landscape, user needs, and environmental sustainability. Visitors can appreciate how these architectural details contribute to the larger narrative of what the Monte d'Oiro Wine Hotel represents: a space that honors its context while delivering a modern retreat experience.

In summary, the Monte d'Oiro Wine Hotel project stands as a model of how thoughtful architecture can create a symbiotic relationship between people and their environment. The careful selection of materials, interconnected building design, and focus on wellness and community interaction highlight the architects' intent to develop a truly immersive experience for guests. For those interested in exploring this project in greater detail, it is recommended to look into the architectural plans, sections, and design elements that further illustrate the innovative ideas behind this remarkable wine hotel. This analysis provides a glimpse into how architecture can define and enhance the character of a place, engaging visitors while respecting the natural world around them.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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