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Circular Design Featuring Local Stone and Warm Wood Elements For A Tranquil Guesthouse Experience

Author:
Simone Sacchetti
Circular Design Featuring Local Stone and Warm Wood Elements For A Tranquil Guesthouse Experience

Project in-detail

A circular layout harmoniously integrates local stone and wood elements around a central olive tree, creating a serene guesthouse that connects guests to the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular layout centered around a central olive tree enhances community interaction.
02
Local stone and wood are sourced to create a strong connection to the landscape.
03
A unique wine cellar is integrated beneath the olive grove, offering immersive tastings.
04
Large glass panels maximize natural light while creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
05
Terraces with wooden pergolas provide shaded areas for relaxation and socialization.
The Portugal Olive Guest House is an architectural project designed to connect its inhabitants with the local landscape while providing a functional and inviting space for guests. Positioned within an olive grove, the project integrates natural elements into its structure, representing a harmonious blend of contemporary design and regional agricultural heritage. The primary function of this guest house is to provide accommodation and a communal space for guests to relax and engage with the surrounding environment.

Key components of the guest house include various guest rooms, communal dining areas, and outdoor spaces, all of which promote interaction among visitors while also allowing for individual retreat. The ground floor features an open layout where a central pool flows seamlessly into the adjoining terrace, created to encourage socialization while offering stunning views of the site. The incorporation of large windows throughout the design ensures ample natural light, further enhancing the sense of connectivity between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

One distinctive aspect of the guest house is the use of a circular design theme centered around a central olive tree. This element serves as both a focal point and a symbolic representation of the local culture, influencing the spatial organization of the building. The unique structural features, such as a circular cellar for tastings and the varied elevations of the building, contribute to a dynamic architectural presence that sets this project apart from conventional lodgings.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the overall design and aesthetic of the guest house. The combination of stone, wood, glass, and concrete not only ensures durability but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Stone and concrete form the building's structural foundation, while wood is utilized for decking and furnishings, providing a tactile quality that enhances guest comfort. Expansive glass panels facilitate unobstructed views and facilitate natural lighting, which enhances the experience within the accommodation.

The architectural design also considers the relationship between the guest house and the surrounding olive grove. Terraces adorned with wooden pergolas and strategically placed landscape features invite guests to immerse themselves in nature, encouraging outdoor activities and relaxation under the shade of ancient trees. This deep connection to the landscape is a testament to the project’s dedication to preserving the local essence while delivering modern functionality.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and implementation behind the Portugal Olive Guest House, we invite readers to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. These resources provide deeper insights into the thoughtful design choices that make this project a unique contribution to the hospitality sector.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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