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Cubic Structure Embracing Parasol Elements in a Coastal Wine Pavilion

Author:
Justus Voigt
Cubic Structure Embracing Parasol Elements in a Coastal Wine Pavilion

Project in-detail

A pavilion with a cubic form and sixteen parasol elements seamlessly integrates floor-to-ceiling windows, offering uninterrupted vineyard views while serving as a venue for wine tasting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cubic design enhances structural efficiency and aesthetic simplicity.
02
Sixteen square parasol elements provide shade while defining open spaces.
03
Floor-to-ceiling windows maintain visual continuity with the vineyards.
04
Adjustable curtains allow for customized sun protection and privacy.
05
A single cubic volume houses essential facilities, ensuring functional minimalism.

The Parasol Pavilion is located in the coastal region of Portugal, overlooking the vineyards of Quinta do Monte d'Oiro. Designed as a wine tasting venue, it emphasizes transparency and a connection to the natural landscape. The layout encourages interaction between the interior space and the outdoors, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Structure and Layout

The pavilion features an arrangement of sixteen square-shaped parasol elements, which define the space while creating a neutral backdrop for activities. This configuration allows for flexibility and accommodates various gatherings within a single open area. A simple cubic structure houses necessary facilities, such as sanitary rooms and a counter, maintaining a clean and restrained aesthetic.

Interaction with Nature

A key aspect of the design is the use of floor-to-ceiling windows. These large openings invite ample natural light and provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding vineyards. The transparency fosters visual engagement and a sense of connection with the landscape. Additionally, sliding window segments allow the pavilion to open nearly completely, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience.

Functional Design Elements

To enhance user comfort, the pavilion includes adjustable curtains that provide sun protection while allowing for personal preferences regarding shading and privacy. This attention to detail addresses varying weather conditions, contributing to the pavilion's overall adaptability. Inside, the use of parquet beech flooring adds warmth, and a heated screed improves functionality.

Material Considerations

The careful selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and harmony with the environment. Insulation, especially XPS, combined with OSB sheets, improves thermal performance and energy efficiency. These choices not only support the building's structure but also create a sense of place that ties the architecture to the agricultural landscape.

The design encourages engagement with both the space and its surroundings, offering a welcoming environment that celebrates the relationship between wine tasting and the scenic vineyards.

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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

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