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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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