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Geothermal Sustainability and Stone Retaining Walls Enveloping a Vineyard Tasting Room

Authors:
Steven Risting, Sean Costello
Geothermal Sustainability and Stone Retaining Walls Enveloping a Vineyard Tasting Room

Project in-detail

Incorporating geothermal systems and locally sourced stone, the winery utilizes terraced outdoor spaces and expansive glass panels to merge seamlessly with the vineyard landscape while providing an engaging tasting experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a double-layered trellis system for passive solar control and ventilation.
02
Utilizes locally sourced stone for retaining walls, enhancing regional integration.
03
Features a reflecting pool that aids in cooling and enhances the sensory experience.
04
Employs operable skylights to optimize natural light while reducing energy use.
05
Creates distinct outdoor terraces for varied engagement with the vineyard landscape.
The Monte D’Oiro winery project showcases a thoughtful approach to architecture, blending functionality with environmental considerations in a scenic vineyard setting. This design serves both as a wine-tasting venue and a social hub, promoting engagement with the surrounding landscape while prioritizing visitor experience.

The architectural design incorporates a series of descending terraces that transition from the main building to the vineyard. These terraces facilitate movement and interaction among visitors, creating distinct zones for social exchange and relaxation. The winery is constructed using locally sourced materials, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability and cultural context. The integration of stone, wood, and glass not only grounds the structure in its environment but also creates a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with the natural surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the project’s distinctive features is its double-layered roof structure. This design element provides passive solar shading while accommodating natural ventilation through operable skylights. The roof integrates seamlessly with a carefully designed trellis system that enhances both functionality and aesthetics. This not only addresses issues of climate control but also enhances the experience within the tasting room by allowing natural light to filter through, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The inclusion of water features, such as a reflecting pool and a waterfall, adds to the sensory experience of the site. These elements contribute not only to the landscape but also create microclimates that foster a pleasant environment for visitors throughout the year. The careful placement of seating areas across the terraces ensures that visitors can enjoy varied viewpoints of the vineyard, thus immersing them in the winery’s setting.

Architectural Functionality and Materiality

The main wine-tasting room is characterized by extensive use of glass panels that dissolve boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. This connection is reinforced through a series of sliding glass doors, allowing for flexible use of the space and maintaining a strong visual link to the vineyard. The interior is furnished with materials that reflect the external environment, creating a sense of continuity throughout the design.

Sustainability practices are woven into the project’s fabric, with features like geothermal heating and rainwater harvesting integrated into the design. These elements ensure that the winery operates efficiently while minimizing environmental impact. The emphasis on using reclaimed materials further highlights the project’s commitment to sustainable architecture.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the Monte D’Oiro winery project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs can provide additional insights into the design principles and spatial relationships that characterize this project. The careful consideration of each element reflects an understanding of both architectural theory and practical application in a vineyard context.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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