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Clay Brick and Natural Materials Crafting a Cultural Hospitality Space

Author:
Nicolás Pineda
Clay Brick and Natural Materials Crafting a Cultural Hospitality Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced clay brick and enhanced with vaulted ceilings, the guest house seamlessly integrates with its olive grove surroundings, providing a unique hospitality experience rooted in the region's agricultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from locally sourced clay brick for thermal efficiency.
02
Incorporates vaulted ceilings to enhance natural ventilation and airflow.
03
Features dedicated olive tasting rooms to engage visitors with local traditions.
04
Designed with external arcades to blend indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly.
05
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable irrigation practices.
The Az-zait Olive Guest House is an architectural project located in a prominent olive-growing region of Portugal. This guest house is designed to serve visitors while promoting an appreciation for local culture and agricultural practice surrounding olive cultivation. The design integrates with the natural landscape, fostering a connection between the built environment and its surroundings.

The primary function of the Az-zait Olive Guest House is to provide a retreat for guests while simultaneously serving as a locale for educational and cultural engagement related to olive traditions. The layout is carefully organized into public and private spaces, which include a lobby, kitchen, dining area, olive tasting room, and bedrooms. Each area is thoughtfully designed to facilitate interaction among guests or provide solitude, depending on the requirements.

The project is unique in several ways. First, it emphasizes local materiality, utilizing clay brick, reinforced concrete, light grey block, wood, ceramic tiles, and glass. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic coherence of the design but also acknowledge the architectural heritage of the region. The widespread use of clay brick enhances thermal performance, ensuring the building adapts well to varying climatic conditions.

The design approach features a bi-zoning concept, separating communal spaces from private areas. This organization allows for flexibility and encourages social interaction while providing comfort. The incorporation of vaulted ceilings and arcaded spaces reflects traditional architectural elements while creating breathable environments conducive to natural ventilation and daylighting.

Another noteworthy aspect of this project is its integration with the landscape. The architectural layout reduces the visual and physical footprint of the built form, allowing the natural olive fields to remain a focal point. Importantly, the design includes outdoor spaces that connect guests to the natural environment, contributing to a holistic experience.

Sustainability is embedded in the design process, with rainwater harvesting systems incorporated into the roof structure for irrigation purposes. This feature not only demonstrates responsiveness to the local ecosystem but also promotes responsible resource management.

Overall, the Az-zait Olive Guest House stands out due to its adaptation of traditional materials and design principles while addressing contemporary environmental challenges. This project not only enhances user experience but also engages visitors with the cultural context of olive cultivation in Portugal.

For a comprehensive exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, the reader is encouraged to review the project presentation in further detail.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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