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Clay Walls and Exposed Wood Merge with Natural Landscape in Residential Retreat

Author:
Tom Dhyser
Clay Walls and Exposed Wood Merge with Natural Landscape in Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing local clay walls and exposed timber beams, the design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, offering a functional retreat that promotes both community interaction and private living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with local clay walls to enhance thermal efficiency and harmonize with the environment Incorporates exposed wooden beams to create a warm and inviting interior aesthetic Features a central courtyard that fosters community interaction while providing privacy Equipped with a cellar dedicated to local olive oil production, promoting regional agriculture Strategically located on a hillside to maximize scenic views and reduce visual disturbances.

Casa da Oliveira is positioned between the traditional village of Marvila and a scenic valley in Portugal, aiming to create a distinct experience while honoring the legacy of Portuguese architecture. The project reconciles traditional design elements with contemporary practices, resulting in a structure that serves both its occupants and the surrounding natural environment.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design prioritizes a fluid relationship between public and private spaces, with an L-shaped massing that allows effective zoning while enhancing visual connectivity. The ground floor features an open-plan layout, integrating a spacious living area with expansive glazing that opens to an outdoor terrace. A well-designed kitchen and dining area facilitate social interaction, while transitional spaces provide a seamless flow between private and communal areas. Upstairs, bedrooms offer access to south-facing balconies that maximize views of the valley, creating tranquil retreats that enhance privacy and comfort.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project's material palette reflects the local architectural heritage while addressing modern sensibilities. Key components include white clay walls for thermal efficiency, exposed wooden beams that introduce warmth and structure, and a whitewashed facade that honors local traditions. Natural stone flooring contributes durability and an earthy connection to the environment. Additionally, the design emphasizes sustainability through features such as extensive glazing for natural lighting and thermal mass in the clay walls to minimize energy consumption. The inclusion of a cellar and tasting room not only highlights the region's olive oil production but also fosters a deeper engagement with the local culture.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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