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Curved Timber Structure Embracing Natural Light in Vineyard Setting

Author:
Nicholas Tolman
Curved Timber Structure Embracing Natural Light in Vineyard Setting

Project in-detail

The curved timber framework, crafted from locally sourced Tyrolean spruce, optimizes natural light and ventilation to create a sustainable tasting room that enhances the visitor experience in a vineyard setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure draws inspiration from the curvature of a wine barrel.
02
Large glass panels facilitate passive solar heating in winter.
03
Natural ventilation is enhanced through strategically placed openings.
04
The timber frame is constructed from locally sourced Tyrolean spruce.
05
The design includes a deck offering unobstructed vineyard views.

The Wine Barrel Tasting Room combines thoughtful design with an appreciation for its natural surroundings. Set among picturesque vineyards, the structure takes inspiration from the shape of a wine barrel. This design not only offers visual appeal but also creates an inviting space for wine tasting. The focus is on strengthening the connection between the inside of the building and the outdoors, enhancing the experience of visitors.

Architectural Concept

The core concept revolves around the integration of the building with the landscape. The curved form of the tasting room mirrors the characteristics of a wine barrel, allowing for unobstructed sight lines toward the vineyard views. Visitors can enjoy the scenic surroundings while also experiencing the comfort of the interior space. This balance of aesthetics and function is key to the design.

Natural Climate Control

A notable aspect of the design is the large glass panels on the south side of the structure. These panels allow sunlight to warm the interior during colder months, contributing to a comfortable environment. French doors and windows are positioned to catch the winds in warmer seasons, providing natural ventilation. Such features highlight the project's aim for energy efficiency and sustainability.

Material Considerations

The building uses a timber frame made from Tyrolean spruce, sourced locally. This choice reduces transportation impacts and connects the project to the region's resources. Using wood adds warmth to the interior, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This material choice reflects a commitment to local craft and environmental responsibility.

Structural Efficiency

The design incorporates slab construction, which helps lower the amount of concrete used. This method not only reduces environmental impact but also maintains the strength of the structure. The use of efficient construction methods supports both the budget and ecological considerations. Overall, the project finds a balance between practicality and design integrity.

Visitors can stand on a deck that overlooks the vineyards, enjoying unobstructed views and a place to connect with the surrounding landscape. This design detail enhances the wine tasting experience, inviting exploration and appreciation of the natural beauty around.

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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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