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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Harmonize in a Sustainable Vineyard Retreat

Authors:
Melchior Dechancé, Dimitri Kasparian
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Harmonize in a Sustainable Vineyard Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local granite, this sustainable facility integrates seamlessly with its vineyard surroundings to provide a comprehensive hospitality experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and environmental sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views of the vineyard.
04
Includes regenerative water systems for ecological efficiency and landscape integration.
05
Arranges hotel rooms around open patios, encouraging social interaction and relaxation.

Monte D'Oiro, located in a prominent vineyard area of Portugal, represents a well-considered integration of architecture and the surrounding landscape. This project consists of a wine facility and hospitality space designed to enhance the visitor experience while supporting the operational needs of wine production. The aim is to create an environment that reflects local culture and traditions while facilitating a seamless connection to nature.

The architectural design focuses on optimizing functionality within specific areas, such as the reception, hotel rooms, leisure facilities, and service zones. Each component serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the overall experience provided to guests. By utilizing a layout that follows the natural contours of the land, the project promotes both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability.

Integration of Local Materials

One of the defining features of Monte D'Oiro is its use of local materials, which enhances the project’s contextual relevance. The incorporation of black granite provides durability and thermal regulation, while terracotta tiles echo traditional building practices in the region. Use of glass establishes transparency between interior spaces and the landscape, allowing natural light to penetrate while connecting occupants to the views outside. These material choices ensure that the project is both visually cohesive and environmentally sensitive.

The leisure area stands out with its integration of therapeutic elements and recreational spaces. An outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by gardens and landscaping that reflect the local ecology, which not only beautifies the area but serves to manage water resources effectively. The design incorporates ecological features, such as water purification systems, to promote sustainability and enhance biodiversity.

Architectural Organization and Community Spaces

The spatial organization of Monte D'Oiro is deliberate and functional. The reception area welcomes visitors and acts as a transition point between the hospitality functions and the winery operations. Hotel rooms are arranged around two open patios that facilitate interaction among guests while offering tranquil spaces for relaxation. These patios incorporate shallow pools, enriching the overall experience and mirroring the surrounding vineyard landscape.

The communal emphasis extends into the leisure area, where additional amenities like spas and recreational spaces encourage social interactions while offering individualized experiences. The garden acts as an important buffer, utilizing stone pathways to maintain a connection with the winery while promoting exploration and engagement with the local environment.

Overall, Monte D'Oiro exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can create functional and sustainable spaces in harmony with the environment. The unique use of local materials, attention to spatial organization, and integration of ecological design principles distinguish this project and reinforce its relevance in the context of Portuguese wine culture.

To gain further insights into the project’s architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, you are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its design elements and spatial arrangements.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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