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Limestone Facade and Pine Wood Interiors in a Guest Residency Emphasizing Agricultural Heritage

Authors:
Julian Scheuring, Erja Ziernhöld, Marina Angenend
Limestone Facade and Pine Wood Interiors in a Guest Residency Emphasizing Agricultural Heritage

Project in-detail

With a limestone facade that harmonizes with the surrounding olive groves and warm pine wood interiors that enhance comfort, the guest residency serves as a functional retreat celebrating local agriculture and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Limestone facade incorporates locally sourced stone, creating a direct connection to the landscape.
02
Pine wood interiors utilize timber from regional forests, enhancing sustainability.
03
The design features large glass openings that maximize natural light and views of olive groves.
04
An olive oil tasting room serves as a focal point for guest interaction and local culture.
05
Outdoor terraces extend living space, encouraging outdoor engagement and appreciation of nature.

The "Pais Retirado" project is situated within an olive farm in the inland region of Portugal, near the town of Batalha. This architectural endeavor serves primarily as a guest residency, functioning as both a retreat for visitors and a space to showcase the local agricultural heritage of olive farming. The design emphasizes a connection to the natural landscape, incorporating the distinct characteristics of the site into every facet of the project. The goal is to create a harmonious environment where guests can engage meaningfully with both the space and the surrounding area.

The primary structure consists of interconnected modular segments, each allocated specific functions including guest accommodations, communal living areas, and an olive oil tasting room. This multifunctional approach supports social interaction while allowing for individual comfort. The residence employs an open-plan layout that increases interior circulation and promotes natural ventilation and light.

Integration with Nature A significant aspect of the design is its seamless integration with the natural world. Large glass windows and doors provide unobstructed views of the olive groves and surrounding landscape, creating a dialogue between the interior spaces and the outdoors. The careful positioning of the structure maximizes passive solar heating and cooling, reducing dependence on mechanical systems. The use of sustainable materials is another key design feature. Local limestone for external facades and pine wood for interiors are not only visually appealing but also promote thermal efficiency and durability. Traditional Portuguese tiles, or Azeulejos, add a layer of cultural significance, linking the project to its regional roots.

Functional Layout and Services Detailed attention has been paid to the functional aspects of the design. The long hallway acts as a connective spine for the building, providing access to private bedrooms while also serving as an exhibition space for celebrating craftsmanship. The main living area merges seamlessly with the kitchen, encouraging a communal experience for guests. Outdoor terraces extend the living spaces into nature, facilitating al fresco dining and relaxation. Additionally, thoughtful landscaping secures privacy while maintaining the openness of the environment, showcasing the landscape’s beauty.

The "Pais Retirado" project stands out in its approach to blending architecture with a sustainable agricultural ethos. Its unique integration of hospitality and education around olive farming, combined with a focus on local materials and sustainable building practices, distinguishes it from conventional architectural projects. This residency not only provides accommodation but also fosters a deeper understanding of the agricultural processes that define the region.

For additional insights into the design's innovative solutions, architectural plans, sections, and detailed visualizations are available for review. Exploring these elements will enhance comprehension of the project's architectural ideas and unique features.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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