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Circular Structure Crafted From Local Sandstone With Sustainable Photovoltaic Integration

Authors:
Andrea Riva, Matteo Zapparoli
Circular Structure Crafted From Local Sandstone With Sustainable Photovoltaic Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted with local sandstone and equipped with photovoltaic technology, this circular guest house harmoniously blends tradition and sustainability, providing a unique retreat experience in the heart of Portugal's olive-producing region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from locally sourced sandstone, enhancing ecological harmony.
02
Circular design facilitates natural ventilation and efficient space utilization.
03
Includes an integrated photovoltaic system for sustainable energy use.
04
Features flexible multipurpose spaces for diverse community activities.
05
Emphasizes connection to local heritage through olive-themed elements.

## Overview
Villa Oleário is located in a region renowned for its historical olive oil production, functioning as a guest house that enhances the relationship between visitors and the local landscape and cultural heritage. The design integrates natural materials and innovative spatial arrangements while prioritizing sustainable practices. The project's circular form is inspired by traditional olive crushers, establishing a contemporary interpretation that reflects both the historical context and modern architectural principles.

## Materiality and Environmental Stewardship
The project emphasizes the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact. Sandstone forms the exterior walls, offering a textured aesthetic that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Concrete is used for structural components, providing stability, while wood enhances the warmth of interior spaces through cladding and furnishings. Extensive glazing includes large, high-reflective windows that maximize natural light and views, further connecting interior environments with the external landscape.

In alignment with sustainable design principles, Villa Oleário features photovoltaic panels to meet its energy needs, aiming to achieve minimal carbon footprints. This approach reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility while enriching the guest experience through thoughtful engagement with natural resources. The layout promotes intuitive movement and incorporates communal spaces, such as an open dining area and a meditation room designed to foster introspection and connection to nature.

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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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