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Elevated Pavilion Integrating Panoramic Views and Seasonal Flexibility

Author:
Julia Pike
Elevated Pavilion Integrating Panoramic Views and Seasonal Flexibility

Project in-detail

Elevated above the vineyard landscape, the pavilion offers sweeping panoramic views and seasonal flexibility, creating an engaging tasting room experience that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated tasting room maximizes vineyard views.
02
Adaptable outdoor pavilion adjusts for seasonal use.
03
Poetic design strategy reflects the surrounding landscape.
04
Direct access to underground storage and restrooms.
05
Emphasis on natural light enhances guest experience.

The Golden Hour Tasting Room is located in the scenic Monte d'Oiro region of Portugal, where the landscape features rolling hills and extensive vineyards. The project serves as a tasting room that invites visitors to connect with the surrounding environment. By emphasizing light and views, the design captures the essence of the region, particularly during the golden hours of the day. The primary aim is to create an engaging space for wine tasting while respecting and enhancing the natural beauty of the site.

Site Integration

The choice of location for the Golden Pavilion was made with care. Positioned within the 20-hectare vineyard, the pavilion creates a strong link between its structure and the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful placement not only shields visitors from harsh weather but also showcases the picturesque scenery. Being elevated allows for sweeping views of the vineyards, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Visitors feel a sense of connection with the land as they enjoy their surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the pavilion reflects a design strategy focused on harmony with the natural context. As guests arrive, they move down a set of stairs that lead to functional spaces, including storage and restrooms. This organization maximizes usability while keeping the main structure discreet. The transition from outdoor to indoor is smooth, fostering a relationship between the two environments. This design encourages a flow that invites people to linger and enjoy both the space and the views.

Seasonal Flexibility

A distinctive feature of the outdoor pavilion is its ability to adapt to different seasons. During the colder months, it can be enclosed, allowing for additional storage and protecting guests from the elements. Conversely, in warmer weather, the structure can open to accommodate more visitors. This flexibility not only benefits practical use but also aligns with the natural rhythms of the region. It highlights the thoughtful consideration given to visitor needs throughout the year.

Large openings in the design frame the landscape beautifully, welcoming natural light and creating a warm atmosphere inside. The ability to experience the changing light conditions throughout the day enhances the enjoyment of both the wine and the environment.

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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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