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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Blend in a Sustainable Guest House Design

Author:
Luís Martins
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Blend in a Sustainable Guest House Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design achieves a seamless integration with its rural landscape while serving as a functional guest house for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic character.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainable construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for improved interior volume and natural light.
04
Blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape through the use of local stone materials.
05
Includes a multifunctional cellar that supports both wine storage and social gatherings.
The House and The Cellar is an architectural project designed as a guest house located in the interior of Portugal. This structure serves as both a living space for visitors and a functioning area for wine storage, reflecting the cultural significance of viticulture in the region. By integrating conventional design elements with modern aesthetics, the project achieves a balance between the local architectural vernacular and contemporary living standards.

The layout consists of two main components: the residential area and the cellar. The living spaces are designed with an open floor plan, promoting connections among the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas. Large glass doors facilitate interactions between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the experience of nature within the living space. The cellar, while primarily serving as a wine storage area, doubles as a social space, encouraging gatherings and events.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable feature of The House and The Cellar is its thoughtful material selection. The use of local stone for the exterior cladding promotes regional identity and sustainability, while wood is utilized for flooring and interior finishes, contributing warmth and tactile comfort. Concrete is implemented in structural elements, providing durability. This careful choice of materials supports the project’s integration with its surroundings, reinforcing a sense of place that is essential in contemporary architecture.

The roof design complements the function of the building. With a gabled shape, it not only allows for efficient rainwater management but also accommodates high ceilings in the living spaces, enhancing natural light penetration and ventilation. Eaves extend outward to provide shade, thus improving outdoor usability and enhancing the overall façade.

Architectural Form and Function

The architectural form promotes a seamless transition between the living area and the landscape. This is achieved through the use of strategically placed windows and doorways, creating view corridors that frame the natural scenery. The landscaping strategy is minimal yet deliberate, featuring native plants that require lower maintenance and contribute to the ecological balance of the site.

In conclusion, The House and The Cellar reflects an approach that combines local tradition with modern needs, resulting in a space that is both functional and culturally relevant. For more insights, explore the architectural presentation of this project to review elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of how distinct architectural ideas are manifested within this project.
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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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