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Curved Structure Featuring Reclaimed Cork Oak and Poured Concrete for Engaging Wine Experiences

Authors:
Charles Marr, Ryan Wakat, Dillon Chang, Hung Ha
Curved Structure Featuring Reclaimed Cork Oak and Poured Concrete for Engaging Wine Experiences

Project in-detail

Reclaimed cork oak and poured concrete come together in a curved structure that enhances the vineyard experience by providing an immersive space for wine tasting and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed cork oak is prominently used in the central wing table, connecting with local heritage.
02
The curved design minimizes visual impact and integrates with the surrounding landscape.
03
Poured concrete walls allow for an organic form while providing structural stability.
04
Indoor and outdoor spaces are seamlessly connected to enhance visitor experience.
05
The facility incorporates acoustic features to improve sound quality during tastings.
The Oculus is an architectural project located in the Monte d’Oiro region of Portugal, designed to serve as a wine tasting facility. Positioned on a hillside known as the “Hill of Gold,” the project integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings while reflecting the area's rich viticultural heritage. The design emphasizes experiential learning and engagement with the landscape, encouraging visitors to connect with the local history of winemaking.

The facility's primary function is to provide an inviting space for wine tasting and education, fostering an appreciation for local wines and the associated craftsmanship. The architectural layout guides visitors through a thoughtfully curated experience, beginning at the entrance plaza and culminating in an immersive interaction with the winemaking process.

Unique Design Approaches

The Oculus employs a curved architectural form that blends with the topography of the site, creating an organic silhouette that reinforces its environmental context. This design strategy includes the use of poured-in-place concrete and CNC cut argiboard, allowing for fluid spatial configurations and aesthetic flexibility.

Key features of the project include a main wine tasting area, which is approximately 60 square meters, centered around an asymmetrically designed wing table that encourages social interaction among guests. This table is crafted from reclaimed cork oak, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and local material use. The incorporation of cork as a primary design element not only highlights the region's natural resources but also enhances acoustic comfort within the space.

The layout further includes functional spaces such as a preparation area for staff, wine display sections, and an outdoor gathering space. This blend of indoor and outdoor functionality allows for a versatile use of the facility, accommodating various events and community activities.

Importance of Materiality

The material selection is critical in embodying the project's ethos. Cork, used extensively throughout the interiors, provides natural insulation, moisture resistance, and durability, aligning with the principles of sustainable architecture. Poured-in-place concrete serves as a structural backbone, facilitating the seamless integration of the building into the natural landscape.

The design of The Oculus goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It fosters an enriched visitor experience through the careful arrangement of space and the thoughtful choice of materials. By articulating each area’s purpose clearly and providing fluid transitions, the project exemplifies a modern approach to architectural design that respects both tradition and innovation.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural concepts and design strategies employed in The Oculus, reviewing architectural plans, sections, and other documentation will provide further insights into this thoughtfully crafted project. Explore these elements to gain a comprehensive view of how The Oculus serves as an exemplary model of contemporary architecture in a context deeply rooted in local culture.
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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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