Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Integration of Red Brick and White Stucco in a Culturally Rich Guesthouse Design

Author:
Nayeon Park
Integration of Red Brick and White Stucco in a Culturally Rich Guesthouse Design

Project in-detail

Blending earthy red brick and crisp white stucco, this guest house offers a tranquil retreat that reflects the rich cultural heritage of its olive grove setting while inviting visitors to engage with both nature and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates circular windows that symbolize the connection to olive trees and nature.
02
Features a spacious courtyard designed to enhance communal experiences among guests.
03
Utilizes locally sourced red brick for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
04
Employs a thoughtful arrangement of spaces to encourage interaction and privacy simultaneously.
05
Includes sustainable materials that resonate with the surrounding landscape's ecology.
The Olive Guest House is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project situated in Portugal. This design represents a harmonious blend of contemporary architecture with cultural significance, serving as both a welcoming retreat and an embodiment of the Verde family's heritage. Conceptually rooted in the metaphor of grafting branches onto an olive tree, the structure symbolizes the unity of diverse cultures and experiences, inviting guests to reflect upon their connections to one another and the surrounding landscape.

The primary function of the Olive Guest House is to provide an engaging and comforting environment for visitors, encouraging communal interactions while also offering spaces for individual reflection and relaxation. The design takes into consideration the needs of guests by incorporating a series of interconnected spaces that facilitate both private and communal activities. This duality allows guests to interact, share experiences, and develop a sense of community, while also providing personal retreats within the accommodations.

The architecture of the guest house emphasizes an intimate connection with nature, characterized by the use of large windows and open-plan layouts that create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. By integrating the beauty of the natural surroundings, the design not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also promotes well-being through the abundant natural light and fresh air that flow through the spaces.

Key elements of the Olive Guest House include its distinctive use of materials, which play a crucial role in crafting a warm and inviting atmosphere. The predominant use of red brick contributes to the building's earthy quality, reflecting the warm tones of the surrounding landscape. This material is complemented by white stucco that serves as an outer facade, providing a bright contrast that adds to the overall lightness of the design. Additional elements such as wooden accents in furniture and fixtures infuse the space with a tactile warmth, encouraging a sense of comfort that resonates throughout the guest experience.

Architectural details throughout the guest house reflect the project's conceptual themes. Circular windows, strategically placed to promote views of the olive groves and gardens, serve not only as sources of natural light but also as symbolic representations of the olive tree, enhancing the narrative of unity and growth. The layout promotes a sense of flow, guiding guests through various functional zones, which are designed to accommodate both communal dining and private relaxation. The incorporation of outdoor spaces, such as courtyards and terraces, reinforces the connection to the landscape, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment.

The innovative design approach of the Olive Guest House is characterized by its sensitivity to the local context and historical narrative. Each decision made within the design process reflects a dedication to sustainability, cultural relevance, and aesthetic integrity. Moreover, the project demonstrates a thoughtful consideration of how architecture can enhance the human experience by fostering connection and reflection within a serene setting.

This project serves as a testament to the possibilities of architecture as a medium for storytelling and community building. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, the Olive Guest House stands as an example of how thoughtful architectural design can create spaces that resonate deeply with visitors. For those interested in exploring the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, a comprehensive presentation of the Olive Guest House is available for review, offering deeper insights into its design philosophy and execution.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
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 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy