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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create a Sustainable Guest Experience in Rural Portugal

Authors:
Matteo Legnani, Nicholas Pallavicini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create a Sustainable Guest Experience in Rural Portugal

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and local stone artfully blending into the Portuguese countryside, the design invites guests to explore the region's olive oil heritage while experiencing a sustainable approach to hospitality.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design employs charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics while promoting fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural strength and sustainability, sourced locally to minimize environmental impact.
03
A bent A-frame design creates distinct spatial dynamics and maximizes natural light throughout the interior.
04
The guest house features a multifunctional tasting room that adapts for culinary workshops, fostering community engagement.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to support irrigation and reduce water consumption, aligning with eco-conscious practices.
Famiglia Verde's Olive Guest House is an eloquent example of how architecture can harmonize with cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. Located in the picturesque countryside of Portugal, this project represents a thoughtful integration of traditional olive oil production with contemporary design practices. The guest house serves as both a functional space for visitors and an educational hub, celebrating the region's rich history of olive oil craftsmanship.

The Olive Guest House is designed to immerse guests in the experience of exploring olive oil, from its production processes to tasting events. This dual function not only enhances the visitor experience but also fosters an appreciation for the local culture. The design supports various activities, including workshops, tours, and tastings, promoting interactive engagement with the region's traditions.

Architecturally, the guest house is characterized by a well-considered layout that balances public and private spaces effectively. The building's orientation maximizes natural light and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Public areas are strategically positioned to encourage social interactions among guests, while private zones ensure a sense of retreat and tranquility. This careful zoning reflects an understanding of how visitors navigate space and the importance of creating a community atmosphere while respecting individual privacy.

The materiality of the Olive Guest House further enhances its connection to the landscape. A selection of local materials has been employed to maintain authenticity and reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation. Concrete provides structural integrity and a sense of permanence, while wood adds warmth and a tactile quality to the interiors. Plaster finishes contribute to a seamless flow between spaces, maintaining the simplicity of the design. Expansive glass elements create visual links to the exterior, fostering a dynamic relationship between indoor environments and the natural surroundings.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. Notably, the use of a spiral staircase serves as a focal point within the guest house, which not only connects various levels but also acts as an artistic expression of movement and fluidity. The main tasting room is designed as a multifunctional space that accommodates both small group gatherings and larger events, exemplifying the flexibility of modern architectural considerations. This room is essential, as it embodies the core mission of the guest house: to provide a platform for learning and sharing about olive oil production.

Sustainability is a central theme in the Olive Guest House's design philosophy. The integration of rainwater collection systems ensures efficient water usage, significantly minimizing the reliance on external resources. Energy efficiency is further enhanced through natural ventilation strategies, allowing fresh air to flow through the building, which reduces the need for mechanical cooling systems. These design choices reflect a commitment to creating a structure that is not only low-impact but also one that educates visitors on sustainable practices.

In summary, Famiglia Verde's Olive Guest House is an exemplary architectural project that marries function with cultural appreciation. The design expertly accommodates the diverse activities associated with olive oil, all while maintaining a strong connection to the local environment and community. Every aspect, from material selection to spatial organization, has been meticulously crafted to create an inviting and educational atmosphere. Those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas behind the Olive Guest House are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further details.
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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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