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Cork-Infused Sky Bridge Interlinks Sustainable Spa and Dining Facilities Within a Vineyard Landscape

Authors:
Victoria Watson, Tom Mclucas, Alex Oltean, Jay Patel
Cork-Infused Sky Bridge Interlinks Sustainable Spa and Dining Facilities Within a Vineyard Landscape
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A cork-infused sky bridge connects a sustainable spa and restaurant, enhancing the visitor experience within an integrated vineyard landscape designed for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork is utilized extensively in the sky bridge, reflecting the local winemaking industry.
02
The spa's design incorporates multiple levels for enhanced privacy and natural light.
03
A green roof is integrated into the restaurant for environmental sustainability and aesthetics.
04
The event space features flexible layouts supported by large, open beams for versatility.
05
Terracotta is used as a thermal material, promoting energy efficiency throughout the structures.

The architectural design project is a comprehensive development set within a picturesque vineyard landscape, likely located in Portugal. It consists of several distinct structures, including guest accommodations, a restaurant, a spa, an event space, and a sky bridge. This project aims to not only provide various services to visitors but also to enhance the overall experience of being immersed in the surrounding natural beauty. Each structure is strategically designed to complement the landscape while fulfilling specific functional roles.

The project primarily represents a blend of hospitality and wellness within an agricultural context. It integrates seamlessly with the vineyard's terrain, providing visitors with a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural environment. The design facilitates various activities, ranging from vineyard tours and wine tastings to relaxation and wellness treatments, effectively catering to a diverse clientele.

Architectural Features and Design Approaches

The sky bridge is one of the project’s defining features. It offers a visually appealing connection between different facilities, designed to resemble natural forms. This element not only serves a practical purpose but also enhances the aesthetic qualities of the project. The bridge is constructed using cork, reflecting the local industry while promoting sustainability.

The spa is another significant aspect of this design. It features a solid facade made of compact stone, promoting both durability and a sense of permanence. Inside, the layout provides privacy through varying levels and strategically placed openings that allow natural light to flood the space, creating an inviting atmosphere without compromising comfort.

The restaurant is designed with a sloping roof that directs views toward the vineyard, further enhancing the dining experience. The extensive use of fenestration allows guests to engage with the outdoors, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces.

Versatility is a key element of the event space, which incorporates a flexible design allowing for a wide range of activities. With an innovative roof structure made of large beams, the space balances openness and functionality, accommodating everything from conferences to intimate gatherings.

Sustainability and Materiality

The project places a strong emphasis on sustainable architecture. The careful selection of materials, such as terracotta, cork, and stone, promotes energy efficiency and reflects a commitment to sourcing local resources. This approach not only supports the local economy but also minimizes the ecological footprint of the project.

The design encourages natural ventilation and uses materials that promote thermal efficiency, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. By integrating landscape features such as green roofs and outdoor patios, the project aims to enhance biodiversity and establish a harmonious relationship with its environment.

For those interested in exploring the technical aspects of the design, architectural plans, sections, and detailed analyses provide further insight into the project’s intricacies. Reviewing these elements will deepen the understanding of how the architecture interacts with both the surrounding landscape and the functional needs of visitors. This project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to hospitality architecture within a vineyard setting, blending functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic consideration.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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