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Cork Oak-Inspired Structure Featuring Mass Timber and Rustic Stone Within a Vineyard Landscape

Authors:
Pablo Nascimento, Oscar Rebolo, Elisa Quintana, Alejandro Benitez
Cork Oak-Inspired Structure Featuring Mass Timber and Rustic Stone Within a Vineyard Landscape

Project in-detail

Inspired by the form of the local cork oak, the design incorporates mass timber and rustic stone to create a harmonious retreat that enhances the vineyard experience through sustainable hospitality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the local cork oak tree, the structure symbolizes regional heritage.
02
Mass timber construction enhances sustainability and energy efficiency.
03
Rustic stone cladding integrates the building into the natural landscape.
04
The design features a central courtyard that promotes community interaction.
05
Panoramic views from guest areas connect visitors with the vineyard setting.
The project "Sobreiro" is an architectural design situated at the Quinta do Monte d'Oiro Vineyard in the Lisbon region of Portugal. This initiative serves as an expansion of the vineyard's facilities, designed to accommodate guests in a setting that immerses them in the local wine culture and natural landscape. The development integrates modern hospitality elements while drawing on traditional architectural practices to align with the site's aesthetic and environmental context.

Design Integration and Contextual Approach

One distinctive feature of the Sobreiro project is its thoughtful integration with the surrounding vineyard landscape. The architectural design employs a staggered three-story layout that houses 40 guest rooms. This structure is oriented around a central courtyard, allowing for natural circulation and interaction among guests. The use of multiple building modules—each serving specific functions such as reception, dining, entertainment, and service—creates a cohesive yet dynamic environment.

A significant architectural element is the "Sobreiro," a design inspired by the local cork oak trees. This feature acts as a symbolic focal point, representing both the natural heritage of the region and serving as a welcoming gesture to visitors. The careful arrangement of terraces and outdoor spaces promotes a connection with the landscape, reinforcing the project's commitment to an immersive and environmentally friendly experience.

Sustainable Materiality and Local Craftsmanship

Designing with sustainability in mind, the project employs a range of materials that reflect local craftsmanship and ecological considerations. Key materials include mass timber for structural components, rustic natural stone for cladding, and terracotta tiles that aid in thermal insulation. The incorporation of Portuguese marble adds elegance to the interiors while wooden flooring enhances warmth and comfort in communal spaces.

The use of insulating glass in windows ensures energy efficiency, while laminated glass railings maintain visual transparency, allowing unobstructed views of the surrounding vineyard. This focus on materiality not only fulfills aesthetic requirements but also aligns them with sustainability goals, optimizing the building's environmental footprint.

Functionality and Visitor Experience

The architectural design prioritizes functionality and visitor experience through an organized spatial framework. The reception and module housing are designed to support seamless guest navigation, with accessible features such as ramps and elevators incorporated throughout. The restaurant, capitalizing on the scenic vineyard views, offers a dining experience that integrates local culinary culture.

Event spaces and recreational facilities, including a gym and spa, ensure that guests have access to diverse activities, catering to both leisure and business needs. The balanced organization of social and private spaces contributes to an engaging visitor experience, inviting interaction while providing areas for solitude.

For further exploration of the Sobreiro project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, engage with the detailed project presentation. Insights into innovative architectural ideas and the unique design solutions applied within this development await.
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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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