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Charred Wooden Shingles and Curved Forms in a Sustainable Guest Retreat

Author:
Jiyoon Choi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Curved Forms in a Sustainable Guest Retreat

Project in-detail

Embodying the organic curves of olive branches and clad in charred wooden shingles, this sustainable retreat seamlessly integrates with its landscape, providing a serene guest experience that celebrates nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a central courtyard that fosters community and interaction among guests.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic that connects with the local environment.
03
Large windows strategically position dynamic light patterns throughout the day, enriching the guest experience.
04
A bent A-frame structure optimizes spatial efficiency while echoing the organic forms of surrounding olive trees.
05
Sustainable materials, such as cross-laminated timber panels, minimize the building's ecological footprint while maintaining structural integrity.
The Olive Guest House is an architectural project designed with an emphasis on harmonizing human experiences with the natural environment. Located on the outskirts of a tranquil city in Portugal, the design embodies a thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor living, showcasing how architecture can enhance one's connection to nature. The overall concept revolves around the idea of creating spaces that evoke a profound sense of calm and wellbeing, offering guests a unique retreat that reflects its setting.

This project functions primarily as a guest house, catering to visitors seeking respite and an immersive experience with the surrounding landscape. By infusing elements of the natural world into its design, the Olive Guest House serves as a sanctuary where architecture and the environment interlace seamlessly. The layout encompasses communal and private areas, ensuring a balance between shared experiences and individual reflection.

The design is characterized by its organic shapes that draw inspiration from the olive tree, familiar to the region. These soft, fluid lines create a sense of continuity with the landscape, allowing the structure to sit gently within its context. Each area of the guest house is intentional, molded to foster a stimulating environment that encourages relaxation and interaction with nature. The incorporation of large windows serves not only to frame picturesque views but also to bring an abundance of natural light into the living spaces. This thoughtful arrangement results in dynamic interiors that change throughout the day, enhancing the guest experience and promoting a connection with ever-changing outdoor conditions.

Important elements of the Olive Guest House include a central courtyard and a rooftop garden. The courtyard acts as a focal point of the design, providing a private outdoor space that invites guests to enjoy the surrounding greenery while fostering a sense of community among visitors. The rooftop garden further extends this idea, creating an elevated area for leisure while maintaining a visual relationship with the ground below.

The material choices throughout the project reflect a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Concrete is the primary structural material, providing a robust framework that is both functional and minimalist. Wood is prominently featured in interior finishes and furniture, introducing warmth and a tactile quality that enhances the overall comfort of the guest experience. Glass is strategically used to maximize views and natural light, reinforcing the project's objective of blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. This use of natural stone complements the design, connecting the building physically and visually to its immediate landscape.

Unique design approaches evident in the Olive Guest House include the manipulation of light and space, prioritizing not only aesthetics but also functionality. The architects deliberately designed the building to optimize sunlight, allowing for well-lit spaces that create welcoming atmospheres. The perforated ceiling and angled surfaces filter natural light, adding depth to the interior while minimizing the reliance on artificial illumination.

Through these design strategies, the Olive Guest House presents a model of how architecture can thoughtfully engage with its environment. The project stands out as an expression of modern architectural ideas, marrying functionality with design excellence to foster connections among guests and with nature. Visitors are encouraged to explore all aspects of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and details, to fully appreciate the myriad elements that contribute to the guest house's charm and character. This exploration not only illuminates the project's intentions but also showcases how contemporary architecture can influence and enhance our everyday experiences.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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