Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cork Facade and Natural Light Integration in a Vineyard Community Space

Author:
Dorine Vos
Cork Facade and Natural Light Integration in a Vineyard Community Space

Project in-detail

With a façade crafted from cork and spacious interiors illuminated by natural light, the design transforms the local vineyard into a welcoming hub for wine tasting and community gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The façade employs textured cork blocks for both insulation and aesthetic appeal.
02
Large glass panels create seamless views of the surrounding vineyard landscape.
03
An open layout fosters flexible use for social gatherings and wine tastings.
04
Natural ventilation techniques enhance indoor air quality and comfort.
05
Local materials were prioritized to reduce environmental impact and support regional economy.
The Cork House, a recent architectural project located at Quinta do Monte d’Oiro, serves as a modern venue dedicated to wine tasting while fostering a strong connection with its surrounding natural landscape. This architectural endeavor symbolizes the blend of contemporary design with ecological mindfulness, strategically utilizing local materials and sustainable practices.

Functionally, the Cork House is designed as an adaptable space that enhances the experience of visitors to the vineyard. It includes various areas for wine tasting, dining, and relaxation, encouraging social interaction among guests. The layout of the building promotes a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the vineyards while enjoying the rich flavors of the wine produced on-site.

A significant aspect of the project is its emphasis on sustainability through thoughtful selection of materials and design. The predominant use of cork as a building material not only supports the local economy but also highlights its eco-friendly properties, such as excellent thermal insulation and durability. This decision reflects an architectural direction that prioritizes environmentally conscious choices while maintaining a high standard of aesthetics and functionality.

The architectural composition features a façade that skillfully incorporates textured cork, which harmonizes with the natural palette of the vineyard surroundings. Large glass panels serve as curtain walls, enabling ample natural light to penetrate the interior spaces while providing unobstructed views of the picturesque landscape. This transparency creates a sense of openness and connection between the built environment and its natural context, inviting the landscape into the architectural experience.

With respect to the interior design, the Cork House is characterized by an open-plan layout that fosters flexibility and adaptability. Various zones within the building are smartly designed to accommodate different activities, from intimate wine tastings to larger gatherings. The incorporation of natural ventilation techniques, including strategically placed windows and openings, enhances airflow, contributing to a comfortable atmosphere throughout the year.

The project employs mindful construction techniques that align with its sustainability goals. By using locally sourced materials and focusing on efficient construction methods that minimize waste, the Cork House stands as a testament to modern architecture's capacity to incorporate environmental responsibility into its essence. Each aspect of the design has been carefully considered to maintain structural integrity while promoting energy efficiency.

A notable feature of the Cork House is the deliberate interaction it fosters between users and the landscape. Outdoor elements such as patios and terraces create inviting extensions of the indoor spaces, allowing for an engaging experience that respects the local topography and ecology. The design not only serves its functional purpose but also enhances the overall journey of the guests, connecting them to the essence of the region.

The Cork House is a prime example of architecture that successfully integrates innovative design approaches with sustainability and community engagement. It offers a space where visitors can appreciate the fine nuances of wine tasting while being enveloped in a thoughtfully designed environment. As you explore the project presentation, elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas come to life, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this unique endeavor. Delve deeper into the details of the Cork House to appreciate the full scope of its architectural merits and contributions to the field.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy