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Cork Walls Framing Sunset Views in a Rural Tasting Room

Authors:
Gabriel Afonso, Alexandra Sousa
Cork Walls Framing Sunset Views in a Rural Tasting Room

Project in-detail

Cork walls define the tasting room's structure, seamlessly integrating with panoramic sunset views and the surrounding landscape, creating a refined space for wine appreciation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork walls enhance insulation while providing a connection to the landscape.
02
The layout symbolically integrates the five elements into the architecture.
03
Large windows frame uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside.
04
Seasonal gardens promote year-round community engagement and interaction.
05
An oculus directs attention to sunset views, enriching the tasting experience.

The Monte D'Oiro project is located in Alenquer, Portugal, within the Lisbon district. It serves as a wine degustation room that connects with the surrounding rural landscape. The design concept focuses on blending with its environment while enhancing the overall experience of wine tasting. The architecture embodies themes of balance and interaction with nature, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Wall Structure

A central feature of the design is a wall that symbolizes the five elements. This wall begins with two squares, which transform into a golden rectangle. From there, it expands into a concave circle that incorporates geometric forms linked to the Monte D'Oiro symbol. This arrangement invites visitors to engage with the space, fostering a unique experience of depth and exploration.

Integration with Nature

Large windows are a significant aspect of the design, providing unobstructed views of the landscape. This allows guests to connect directly with the environment outside. The presence of natural light adds to the ambiance during tastings, bridging the gap between inside and outside. The layout encourages appreciation of the beautiful Portuguese countryside, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Garden Spaces

Another important element of the project is the inclusion of two garden areas. One garden features a pergola meant for summer use, while the other is an enclosed, translucent space suitable for winter. This thoughtful separation allows for varied use throughout the year. Both gardens complement the main building and promote interaction among visitors, especially during seasonal activities.

Orientation and View

The orientation of the building is carefully designed to manage sunlight effectively. It offers protection from harsh rays while also guiding visitors toward delightful sunset views through an oculus. This design feature plays into the overarching narrative of Monte D'Oiro, creating a setting that responds to the natural rhythms of the day. Light and shadow dance within the tasting room, adding to an inviting atmosphere that reflects the beauty of the surroundings.

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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

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