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Emphasis on Natural Light Enhanced by Asymmetrical Gable Roofs and Durable Terracotta Tiles in Sustainable Olive Oil Retreat

Author:
Casey Krause
Emphasis on Natural Light Enhanced by Asymmetrical Gable Roofs and Durable Terracotta Tiles in Sustainable Olive Oil Retreat

Project in-detail

With asymmetrical gable roofs that capture natural light and integrate terracotta tiles reflective of local tradition, the retreat offers an immersive experience in olive oil production and tasting amidst serene landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetrical gable roofs enhance natural ventilation throughout the space.
02
Terracotta tiles provide a traditional aesthetic while ensuring thermal efficiency.
03
An integrated pergola offers shaded outdoor communal areas for gatherings.
04
Private meditation rooms are strategically located to promote tranquility and privacy.
05
Local craftsmanship in materials emphasizes the connection to the surrounding olive grove.

### Project Overview
Sombra e Azeite is a residential retreat designed for the Verde family, situated within a landscape of olive groves. The project serves as both a guesthouse and an Olive Oil Tasting Room, aimed at enhancing the experience of visitors interested in high-quality olive oil production. The design seeks to integrate modern architecture with traditional agricultural practices, providing a space that reflects the cultural significance of the olive industry.

### Spatial Organization
The layout features a coherent separation between guest accommodations and communal areas, promoting both social interaction and privacy. The ground floor includes an open living and dining area, along with two private meditation rooms and direct access to outdoor spaces, facilitating communal gathering. On the upper floor, guest rooms equipped with private bathrooms prioritize comfort while ensuring seclusion. A central pergola connects the two buildings and offers a courtyard that serves as a multifunctional space for relaxation and culinary experiences, underscoring the project's emphasis on social engagement.

### Materiality
The selection of materials throughout Sombra e Azeite emphasizes sustainability and a connection to the local environment. The structural framework utilizes brick and white plaster for durability, while wood is prominently featured in interior spaces to create a warm atmosphere. Terracotta tiles on the roof invoke elements of traditional Portuguese architecture, and large glass windows enhance natural light while framing views of the surrounding landscape. Metal accents in roofing and framework complement the modern design, contributing to the project's visual narrative.

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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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