The Monte D'Oiro Wine Tasting Room is located in a picturesque vineyard in Portugal and offers a warm setting for tasting local wines. This design seeks to create a welcoming environment that connects visitors with the landscape surrounding them. By integrating the new building with existing structures like the Barrel Room and Chapel, the overall experience is one of harmony and balance between built and natural environments.

Architectural Concept

The concept behind the Wine Tasting Room revolves around fostering interaction between the new space and the vineyard. It is placed thoughtfully at the edge of the property, allowing direct views of the nearby fields. This layout enhances the relationship between the inside and outside, making nature a part of the tasting experience. Openings throughout the building are carefully arranged to manage light and visibility, ensuring comfort for guests in different seasonal conditions.

Materiality and Form

The design draws inspiration from the vineyard itself, particularly through shapes reminiscent of grapes. The windows are shaped to reflect this idea, creating a connection to the local agricultural context. The outer walls of the building are finished in white, allowing it to blend with the surrounding architecture. The interior features oak wood, which adds a sense of warmth and relates to the region’s culture and character.

Spatial Dynamics

Inside, the layout centers around a large wooden table that encourages social interaction among guests. This gathering space brings people together during the wine tasting experience. The barman is positioned in the middle, allowing for easy communication. Large windows run along one side of the room, providing ample views of the vineyard. This design creates an inviting atmosphere, particularly as daylight shifts into the warm hues of sunset.

As evening approaches, soft light filters through the openings and illuminates the wooden surfaces, casting gentle shadows that enhance the room’s serene ambiance. Each pour of wine becomes a moment to appreciate not just the drink but also the beauty of the surrounding landscape.