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Curvilinear Structure Crafted With Local Wood and Expansive Glass for Wine Tasting

Authors:
Ivana Rakshit, Carolyn Chalfant
Curvilinear Structure Crafted With Local Wood and Expansive Glass for Wine Tasting

Project in-detail

Designed with a curvilinear form in local wood and expansive glass panels, the wine tasting room invites visitors to connect with the surrounding vineyards through a seamless interplay of light and landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form mimics the silhouette of a wine glass to enhance the tasting experience.
02
Large glass panels maximize natural light while offering panoramic vineyard views.
03
Local materials emphasize a connection to the regional architecture and landscape.
04
The wooden table is designed for flexibility in accommodating various group sizes.
05
Passive ventilation strategies reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort.
The Wine Glass is a wine tasting room strategically situated at Quinta do Monte D’Oiro in Portugal. This architectural project serves both as a space for wine appreciation and a catalyst for connecting visitors to the surrounding vineyard landscape. Designed with an emphasis on contemporary aesthetics combined with traditional Portuguese architectural elements, it presents an engaging environment for wine enthusiasts.

The main function of this project revolves around wine tasting, enabling guests to engage with both local wines and the intrinsic natural beauty of the vineyard. With its curvilinear silhouette reminiscent of a wine glass, the design concept aims to create an inviting atmosphere which enhances the guest experience. Large glass panels form the majority of the façade, promoting views of the vineyard while allowing ample natural light to flood the interior spaces.

The layout of The Wine Glass is meticulously crafted to support various activities within the tasting room. The main tasting area features a solid wooden table that can be reconfigured for different group sizes, thereby supporting both intimate and larger gatherings. Adjacent to this is the wine cellar, designed for optimal storage and display of the winery's offerings. A bar area complements these spaces, incorporating both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Each element is positioned to encourage fluid movement and interaction among guests, facilitating a social environment that aligns well with the nature of wine tasting.

Sustainability is a core principle of this project. The design utilizes locally sourced materials, such as concrete, wood, glass, and brick, reducing the environmental footprint while ensuring that the building resonates with its context. The natural finish of concrete and warm wooden elements combine to create a welcoming interior. The strategic placement of large glass panels enhances natural ventilation, allowing for passive temperature control throughout the space.

A distinguishing feature of The Wine Glass is its emphasis on sensory interaction. The architectural design fosters a multi-sensory experience where guests can engage with the aromas of wine, the visual beauty of the vineyards, and the tactile quality of the materials used in the interior. Lighting plays a crucial role as well; fixtures are designed to provide ambient illumination while highlighting key architectural elements.

The integration of outdoor and indoor experiences is another unique aspect of this design. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards from multiple vantage points within the tasting room. The architectural form not only provides functional benefits but also enhances the overall ambiance, inviting visitors to appreciate the surrounding landscape intimately.

Explore the project presentation for detailed insights, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas that define The Wine Glass. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the design principles, spatial organization, and materials that contribute to its architectural significance.
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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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