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Emphasizing Sustainable Design Through Reused French Oak and Natural Terracotta in a Vineyard Tasting Room

Author:
Savannah Carrick
Emphasizing Sustainable Design Through Reused French Oak and Natural Terracotta in a Vineyard Tasting Room

Project in-detail

Incorporating reused French oak and terracotta flooring, the design creates a harmonious interplay between sustainable materials and the surrounding vineyard landscape, providing a functional space for wine tasting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reused French oak features prominently in custom furnishings, promoting sustainability.
02
Terracotta flooring ensures thermal comfort while enhancing local material use.
03
An expansive wine wall serves as both storage and a focal design element.
04
Design incorporates shading elements to optimize year-round outdoor utilization.
05
High ceilings and large glass windows create a seamless connection with the vineyard.
The Tasting Room is an architectural design project located in a prominent vineyard region of Portugal, specifically influenced by the aesthetic principles of Quinta do Monte d'Oiro. The focal point of this design is to establish a functional space dedicated to wine tasting while creating a cohesive relationship with the surrounding landscape and existing architecture.

The project emphasizes a strong connection between contemporary architectural elements and the traditional vernacular of the region. It aims to facilitate a dynamic interaction between the vineyard and its visitors by enhancing their sensory engagement with the environment.

### Innovative Relationship with Landscape
A key feature of The Tasting Room is its strategic orientation, allowing unobstructed views of the vineyard while considering solar exposure and natural light. The building incorporates designed shading elements to ensure comfort for visitors throughout the year. The outdoor terrace is a notable component, providing an immersive tasting experience that directly engages patrons with the surrounding landscape.

The use of local materials, including Portuguese tiles and terracotta, reinforces regional identity and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. Unique design aspects include the incorporation of reused French oak in custom furnishings, such as chandeliers and communal tables, which serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. This approach not only resonates with the vineyard's history but also promotes sustainable practices within the architecture.

### Harmonizing Tradition and Modernity
The design process successfully merges traditional architectural forms with contemporary trends. This is reflected in the building's high ceilings and expansive glass windows, which invite natural light and allow for visual continuity between indoors and outdoors. The interior layout emphasizes flow and connectivity, guiding visitors through various areas such as tasting rooms and restrooms, all while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space.

The introduction of a wine wall as a central design feature serves a dual purpose: it offers practical storage for wine bottles while also acting as a visual anchor within the tasting area. This distinctive element exemplifies a thoughtful integration of function and form, differentiating The Tasting Room from other projects within the same domain.

### Material and Structural Considerations
The careful selection and application of materials emphasize the project’s commitment to quality and sustainability. The flooring, made of terracotta, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, complementing the overall design. Glass elements contribute to an illusion of openness and lightness, enhancing the connection to the vineyard surroundings.

Attention to detail extends to the building's environmental performance, where passive design strategies are employed to optimize temperature regulation through natural ventilation. This technical consideration aligns with modern architectural practices while enhancing guest comfort during visits.

For those interested in exploring further, the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas of The Tasting Room offer valuable insights into its thoughtful conception and execution. Engaging with these elements provides a comprehensive understanding of how this project not only fulfills its functional requirements but also stands as a model for architectural integration within a vineyard context.
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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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