Vale-un-Veil is a contemporary structure located at the edge of the Quinta do Monte d'Oiro Winery, designed to connect with the surrounding vineyards. The design aims to merge the qualities of an urban plaza with the natural landscape. Through careful spatial planning, the project highlights the experiences of both the winery’s operations and the vineyard's beauty.

Monumental Wall

A significant feature of the design is a monumental wall that separates the winery’s production area from the new pavilion. This wall serves both as a barrier and a guide, allowing visitors to understand the different functions of each space. It establishes a clear distinction between the mechanized world of winemaking and the tranquil experience of the vineyard. This design choice facilitates an easier navigation of the site.

Spatial Organization

The layout of Vale-un-Veil encourages exploration and interaction with the landscape. The structure uses various architectural elements to alternate between revealing and hiding parts of the vineyard, making the visitor experience more dynamic. A main corridor leads through the site, connecting several areas and guiding people along a planned route. This thoughtful arrangement invites a deeper connection to the surrounding environment.

Materiality and Context

The materials used in the design also play a key role in linking the project to its location. Concrete and locally quarried limestone are incorporated to create a sense of place. These materials enhance the overall look of the building while ensuring stability. They reflect the natural characteristics of the region, making the structure feel like a part of the landscape rather than a contrast to it.

Visitor Experience

Visitors transitioning through the project experience a variety of environments, moving steadily from the urban setting to more natural surroundings. The tasting room, with its broad views of the landscape, serves as a fitting conclusion to this journey. Openings in the monumental wall create opportunities for interaction within diverse spaces, each designed for specific purposes. The thoughtful design of Vale-un-Veil encourages a richer understanding of the vineyard and its environment.

Details matter in this design. The flow from one area to another is accentuated by the careful arrangement of walls and openings. Each movement through the space reveals more of the landscape's character, enhancing the visitor's awareness of the unique features of the winery and its adjacent vineyards.