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Mass Timber Integration with Panoramic Views and Cork Oak Inspiration in a Vineyard Hotel

Authors:
Pablo Nascimento, Oscar Rebolo, Elisa Quintana, Alejandro Benitez
Mass Timber Integration with Panoramic Views and Cork Oak Inspiration in a Vineyard Hotel

Project in-detail

Drawing inspiration from the historic cork oak, a mass timber structure harmonizes with its vineyard setting to provide a sustainable hotel experience that seamlessly connects guests with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hanging gardens enhance natural air quality and provide visual interest.
02
The design features a dedicated homage to the historic cork oak, integrating cultural heritage.
03
A panoramic pool with an infinity edge offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Triangular lattice work separates room terraces, adding traditional architectural detail.
05
Mass timber construction minimizes environmental impact while promoting local material use.

An ecological hotel development is taking shape as an extension of the Quinta do Monte d'Oiro Vineyard, located in the wine region of Lisbon, Portugal. This project aims to enhance the experience of guests by celebrating local wine production and embracing the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The design concept centers on the "Sobreiro," a cork oak tree representative of Portuguese culture, drawing inspiration from a fallen historic tree known as "Big Boy." The approach respects the integration of new structures with existing historic buildings, while also considering the natural topography of the site.

Reception and Rooms Module

The Reception and Rooms Module includes a three-story staggered structure that houses 40 guest rooms arranged around a central courtyard. Two panoramic elevators along with staircases provide vertical circulation, ensuring easy movement throughout the complex. An internal green plaza features hanging gardens that line the corridors, offering a pleasant connection to nature. Each guest room is oriented to maximize views and includes open terraces separated by triangular lattice work that reflects traditional Portuguese design.

Restaurant, Kitchen, and Event Rooms Module

Linked to the guest accommodations by a covered bridge, the Restaurant, Kitchen, and Event Rooms Module spans four levels. The restaurant, located at a height of 111.5 meters, features a double-height curved design with a perimeter terrace to enhance interaction with the scenic surroundings. The event space on the 107 level is designed for flexibility, allowing for various functions, with direct access to large terraces overlooking the vineyards. Additionally, a parking area and auxiliary spaces on level 104 support the operational needs of the hotel.

Entertainment and Service Module

Situated in the northeast region of the site, the Entertainment and Service Module includes a recreational area on level 112. This module features a panoramic pool with an infinity edge that extends toward the landscape, a children’s pool, and a heated indoor pool contained within a double-height glass enclosure. Facilities such as a gym, spa, and children's club cater to different guest needs. The second level has integrated meeting rooms, enhancing the versatility of the hotel’s offerings.

Materiality and Design Details

The design merges historical influences with modern sensibilities, creating a space that respects the environment and offers guests a unique experience in the Lisbon wine region. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and connects to local traditions. Mass timber serves as a key structural element, aiming to minimize environmental impact. Exterior finishes include rustic natural stone, terracotta tiles, and Portuguese marble slabs. Inside, traditional ceramics and polished marble are used for flooring, reinforcing the local heritage of the area.

The central feature, the "Sobreiro," acts as both a guiding element and a representation of the cultural ties to the region. It anchors the development and emphasizes a deep connection to the history and natural beauty that surrounds the vineyard.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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