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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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