5 key facts about this project
**Overview**
Located in Portugal, the Olive Guest House integrates contemporary architectural elements with local traditions, creating a structure that resonates with its natural surroundings. The design is centered around an olive tree, which serves as a guiding element for both the building’s organization and its connection to the landscape. The guest house is intended to provide a versatile and immersive experience for its occupants while honoring agricultural heritage.
**Spatial Strategy and Organization**
The design employs a central circular layout, emphasizing connectivity among various functional areas. The ground floor features an open plan that includes a centrally located pool adjacent to an outdoor terrace, facilitating an interplay between indoor and outdoor environments. Accommodation is diversified, offering options such as double rooms and multi-bed configurations. Below ground, a submerged cellar reinforces the integration with nature while serving functional purposes. The first floor is dedicated to communal spaces, including a dining area and a breakfast room, characterized by large windows that frame extensive views of the landscape, thereby enhancing visitor engagement with the surroundings.
**Materiality and Aesthetic Features**
Material selection is integral to the project, fostering both visual coherence and structural integrity. Stone is utilized to establish a tactile relationship with the local environment, while wood adds warmth through elements such as pergolas and furnishings. Glass panels are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and foster transitions between spaces. Concrete contributes a modern quality to the design, grounding it within contemporary architectural trends. The elevation showcases a varied façade that harmonizes with the topography, featuring sloped roofs and cantilevered sections that add visual dynamism. Outdoor terraces equipped with wooden pergolas and olive trees further enhance the natural ambiance, creating tranquil spaces for guest interaction with the environment.
