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Dual-Skin Design Utilizing Local Stone and Concrete for a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Lee Jisu
Dual-Skin Design Utilizing Local Stone and Concrete for a Sustainable Retreat
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With a double-skin facade crafted from local stone and concrete, this retreat harmonizes with its natural setting while offering an immersive experience rooted in the region's olive cultivation heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a double-skin facade that enhances energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates local stone to tie the structure to its geographical context.
03
Features a dedicated sensory space for olive oil tasting and education.
04
Utilizes passive design principles to maintain indoor climate comfort.
05
Positioned to maximize views of the surrounding olive groves and landscape.

**Overview**
Located in Portugal, Casa da Oliveira guest house reflects a thoughtful integration of architectural design with the region's cultural heritage, particularly inspired by the olive tree, which symbolizes harmony and vitality. The intent of the design is to create an immersive environment that connects guests to their surroundings while providing a comfortable retreat. The layout encourages interaction with both the landscape and local traditions associated with olive cultivation.

**Spatial Strategy and Organization**
The guest house is skillfully positioned on a cliff, accommodating the site's varied topography. This consideration enhances the functionality of spaces while promoting a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor environments. Flat areas are designated for communal gatherings, outdoor amenities, and private guest quarters, effectively utilizing the terrain to meet diverse needs. Structural elements are designed to evoke a branch-like configuration, inviting engagement with the natural landscape.

**Materiality and Sustainable Features**
The choice of materials is rooted in local architectural practices, utilizing concrete for structural integrity, wood for warmth and insulation, and glass to maximize natural light and connectivity to the surroundings. A double-skin wall construction enhances energy efficiency, providing shading akin to the protective canopy of an olive tree. Unique spaces within the guest house, such as a tasting room and a meditation room, are designed to facilitate sensory experiences, connecting guests to the traditional local art of olive oil production and cultural heritage.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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