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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Glass Create a Tranquil Retreat in Olive Groves

Author:
Sandy Jan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Glass Create a Tranquil Retreat in Olive Groves

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the guest house harmonizes with its olive grove surroundings while offering a blend of communal and private spaces for relaxation and gathering.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and sustainability.
04
Features large panoramic glass openings to maximize natural light and outdoor views.
05
Designed for optimal passive cooling, minimizing reliance on artificial climate control.

### Overview
The Portugal Olive Guest House is situated in a scenic region of Portugal, strategically designed to complement the existing olive groves and topography. The intent of the project is to create a retreat that merges modern architectural principles with the natural elements of the landscape while fostering an environment conducive to relaxation and social engagement.

### Spatial Strategy
The design optimally utilizes the site's sloping terrain to establish a structure that resonates with the surrounding landscape. Generous use of large windows and open spaces facilitates a strong connection to the outdoors, allowing natural light to permeate interior areas. The layout features a harmonious blend of communal and private spaces, designed to function both as a personal retreat and a gathering place for guests. Key areas, such as the Olive Oil Tasting Room and meditation spaces, illustrate the versatile nature of the design.

### Material Selection
Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. The interior prominently features FSC-certified wood, which provides warmth and a natural ambiance. Large glass panels enhance the openness of the spaces and offer expansive views of the surrounding scenery, while specialized glazing techniques improve thermal performance. The roof is constructed from sustainably sourced metal, offering durability alongside functional benefits such as rainwater collection and shading. Concrete is employed in the foundation, contributing to the overall resilience of the structure.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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