Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in