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Charred Wood and Transparent Acrylic Crafting a Vineyard Tasting Experience

Authors:
Sooji Han, Joohee Lee
Charred Wood and Transparent Acrylic Crafting a Vineyard Tasting Experience

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wood and transparent acrylic, this tasting room masterfully merges contemporary design with the vineyard landscape, inviting visitors to savor the organic connection between nature and wine.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural elements, promoting sustainability and a warm interior environment.
03
The design features large openings that frame scenic views of the vineyard, creating a seamless connection with the landscape.
04
A bent A-frame design not only provides visual interest but also enhances structural stability and functionality.
05
Sensory transition spaces engage visitors through varying textures and light, enriching the wine tasting experience.
The project, titled "The Unknown Ground," represents a thoughtful integration of architecture within the natural landscape of a vineyard, designed specifically as a tasting room. This architectural endeavor embodies the intricate relationship between the environment and the experience of wine tasting, emphasizing the essential connection between nature and the sensory enjoyment of wine. The project serves as a destination where visitors can not only sample wines but also engage in a deeper appreciation of the terroir that defines each variety.

From its inception, the design sought to create a seamless dialogue between the built environment and the surrounding vineyard. The approach to the project revolves around three distinct yet interconnected spaces: an approach space, a transition space, and the main tasting room. Each zone is purposefully designed to guide visitors through an immersive journey, enriching their experience at every stage. The approach space sets the stage for the tasting experience, drawing visitors away from the everyday sights of the vineyard and into a more contemplative atmosphere.

Moving into the transition space, the design emphasizes sensory engagement through light, texture, and sound, preparing visitors for the tasting experience ahead. This space serves as a buffer, heightening anticipation as one transitions from the external world into the tasting environment. It’s here that the thoughtful details become apparent; textured surfaces and varying light conditions work in concert to prepare the senses for the culmination of the experience.

The heart of the project is the tasting room itself, which is characterized by large windows that frame breathtaking views of the vineyard. This design decision is not only practical, allowing natural light to fill the space, but also facilitates a visual connection to the landscape, enriching the experience of wine tasting. The spatial configuration encourages interaction among guests while offering areas for quiet reflection, capturing the multifaceted nature of the wine experience.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this project, with a carefully selected palette that reinforces the overall concept. The use of black concrete in structural elements provides a contemporary aesthetic that contrasts with the organic setting of the vineyard. Wooden louvers add warmth and enhance light modulation, mimicking the patterns found within the vineyard and creating a cohesive dialogue between interior and exterior.

A notable feature of the design is the bespoke long table, constructed from transparent acrylic. This table echoes the shape of wine glasses, forging a direct relationship between the furnishings and the act of wine tasting itself. Such design choices not only fulfill functional requirements but also contribute to the overall narrative of the space.

Unique to "The Unknown Ground" is its commitment to biophilic design, which emphasizes the psychological benefits of connecting built environments to nature. By embedding the structure within the natural terrain and incorporating elements that resonate with the vineyard's characteristics, the project fosters a profound sense of place. This approach reflects a broader trend in architectural design that prioritizes environmental harmony and the cultivation of sensory experiences.

The overall outcome of the project is a space that is both functional and evocative, engaging visitors on multiple levels. The thoughtful transitions between spaces and the intimate connection with the vineyard landscape elevate the act of tasting wine into an experiential journey. This project exemplifies a modern architectural approach that marries form and function, enriching the user experience through deliberate design choices.

For those interested in further exploring the nuances of this architectural endeavor, including architectural plans, sections, and design intentions, detailed presentations offer an opportunity to delve into the layers of thought that have shaped this remarkable project. The design encapsulates a vision where architecture and nature coexist harmoniously, inviting all to experience the unique offerings of "The Unknown Ground."
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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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