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Charred Wooden Shingles and Limestone Integration in a Sustainable Olive Oil Facility

Author:
Kemel Tavares
Charred Wooden Shingles and Limestone Integration in a Sustainable Olive Oil Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced limestone, the facility for olive oil crafting embodies sustainable practices while enhancing community engagement through its thoughtfully designed educational spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels minimizes environmental impact and promotes sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design encourages efficient airflow and natural light throughout the facility.
04
Local limestone is integrated into the building for thermal mass and regional character.
05
Educational workshop spaces facilitate hands-on learning about olive oil production techniques.
This architectural design project centers around the crafting of olive oil, combining functional elements with a focus on sustainability and local cultural heritage. The facility integrates both operational and visitor-centric spaces, making it a center for education, production, and community engagement.

The project employs a design that effectively utilizes the surrounding landscape, taking advantage of natural topography. Concrete and limestone comprise the primary structural materials, providing thermal efficiency and durability. The careful selection of local resources supports sustainability, reducing the project's carbon footprint.

Critical components of the project include the main processing building, guest accommodations, and outdoor gathering spaces. The main building features robust walls with large windows that enhance natural light while allowing views of the landscape. Inside, communal areas encourage collaboration and interaction among visitors and staff.

The guest accommodations are designed for comfort and privacy, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the olive oil production process with ease. Outdoor pergolas extend living spaces to the exterior, providing shaded areas for relaxation and gatherings, fostering community spirit.

Architectural Integration of Sustainability

This project distinguishes itself through its commitment to environmental sustainability and local cultural representation. The choice of building materials, including locally sourced limestone and sustainably harvested timber, reflects a conscious decision to align with local practices and minimize environmental impact. Extensive landscaping using native plants supports local biodiversity while enhancing aesthetic appeal.

Additionally, the design incorporates energy-efficient systems that optimize resource use. Proper orientation and cross-ventilation techniques are employed to maintain comfortable internal temperatures. These strategies demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to architectural design, ensuring operational efficiency and ecological responsibility.

Functional and Community-Oriented Design Elements

The layout prioritizes functionality while promoting communal interactions. Spaces are allocated effectively for olive oil production, storage, and educational activities, with designated zones for public and private use. The communal dining area and fire pit serve as focal points for visitor engagement, creating an environment conducive to learning and sharing knowledge about the traditions of olive oil craftsmanship.

The operational facilities ensure that the production process remains efficient and manageable, with thoughtful integration of technology and workflow. Each area is designed to support its specific function, resulting in a cohesive operation that aligns with the project's educational goals.

For a comprehensive view of this architectural project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation for further insights into the unique design ideas and methodologies employed throughout the development.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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