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Corten Steel and Gabion Integration in a Sustainable Wine Tasting Facility

Authors:
Emmanuel Lara, Kevin Bailly, Leo Cadoret
Corten Steel and Gabion Integration in a Sustainable Wine Tasting Facility

Project in-detail

With its innovative use of corten steel and locally sourced gabion walls, the design seamlessly blends with the vineyard landscape to create a space dedicated to wine tasting and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes corten steel for weathering properties that enhance integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates gabion walls made from locally sourced stone to provide structural stability and aesthetic harmony.
03
Features a partially buried design that minimizes visual impact and maximizes views of the vineyard.
04
Employs large operable windows for natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Utilizes repurposed wood from local wine barrels in interior furnishings, reinforcing a connection to the region's wine culture.

The Winedow at Quinta do Monte D’Oiro serves as a wine tasting facility situated in the heart of a prominent vineyard in Portugal. The project is designed to enhance the visitor experience by integrating the architectural elements with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing a connection to local viticulture. Its function revolves around providing a space for wine tasting and education, allowing visitors to engage with the heritage of the region while appreciating the natural beauty of the vineyard.

The design features a partially buried structure that harmonizes with the sloping terrain. Large glass walls offer panoramic views, inviting the landscape inside and creating a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. The layout accommodates various activities, including group tastings, educational sessions, and private events, reflecting adaptability in usage. The project also prioritizes sustainability, incorporating natural materials and environmentally friendly practices.

Material and Design Approach

The Winedow employs a thoughtful selection of materials that underscore its commitment to sustainability and local identity. Corten steel is utilized for its durability and aesthetics, allowing the building to weather naturally and blend into the environment. Locally sourced concrete and repurposed wood from wine barrels contribute to the project's low environmental impact while reflecting the region’s wine culture.

The architectural design places significant emphasis on natural light and ventilation. The use of large, operable windows enables cross-ventilation and encourages direct interaction with the outdoor environment. This approach not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances the overall visitor experience by providing a connection to the vineyard throughout the seasons.

Spatial Organization and Experience

The spatial organization within the Winedow is designed to facilitate fluid movement and engagement. The layout incorporates varied seating arrangements that cater to different social interactions. Visitors can gather in intimate groups or find solitude by enjoying designated quiet areas that overlook the vineyard. The strategic placement of entry points enhances accessibility while promoting exploration of the space.

Unique features include the integration of green roofs, which enhance biodiversity and contribute to natural insulation. Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to support irrigation needs, aligning with sustainable practices. The combination of these elements fosters an environment that encourages visitors to appreciate the cultural and environmental significance of winemaking in the region.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural ideas, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that demonstrate the thoughtful execution and innovation present in the Winedow. This project exemplifies how effective architectural design can create spaces that resonate with the surrounding context while fulfilling functional requirements.

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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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