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Mirroring Landscapes With Cross-Laminated Timber and Sustainable Cedar in a Wine Tasting Room

Authors:
Grant Shepherd, Leith Mckenzie
Mirroring Landscapes With Cross-Laminated Timber and Sustainable Cedar in a Wine Tasting Room

Project in-detail

Employing cross-laminated timber and charred cedar shingles, the design integrates seamlessly with the vineyard's topography, creating a balanced environment for wine tasting while maximizing natural light and landscape reflections.
5 key facts about this project
01
Design incorporates a mirror finish on exterior surfaces to reflect the surrounding landscape.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic contrast.
04
Open-plan layout promotes flexible use and social interaction among visitors.
05
Strategically positioned skylights optimize natural light throughout the day.
The "Mirage" Wine Tasting Room in Monte d'Oiro, Portugal, is an architectural project that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. Designed as a venue for wine tasting, the structure is thoughtfully integrated into the surrounding vineyard, showcasing a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural landscape. The project is characterized by its unique geometric form, which elevates it above the terrain while maintaining a low profile that harmonizes with the scenery.

This architectural design emphasizes the interaction between interior and exterior spaces, effectively dissolving boundaries and inviting visitors to experience the landscape as part of their wine tasting journey. The building's layout features an open floor plan that fosters social interaction, while strategically placed windows and layouts encourage viewers to appreciate the vineyard vistas.

Design Innovation and Material Use

One of the distinctive aspects of the "Mirage" Wine Tasting Room is its innovative use of materials. The primary structural elements comprise cross-laminated timber (CLT), which offers both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. The choice of cedar wood for interior finishes contributes warmth and comfort while resisting environmental wear, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The mirror surface finish on the exterior allows the structure to blend with its surroundings, transforming the appearance of the building throughout the day as it reflects the changing light and landscape.

The project also employs an energy-efficient design, leveraging natural light and ventilation to reduce reliance on artificial systems. This approach aligns with modern sustainability practices, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. Moreover, the incorporation of water reuse systems demonstrates a pragmatic commitment to resource management, enhancing the overall sustainability of the wine tasting facility.

Interior Spatial Dynamics and Visitor Experience

The interior of the "Mirage" Wine Tasting Room is designed with visitor experience as a priority. The open-plan space facilitates movement and fosters social interaction, while designated areas within the building provide spaces for individual contemplation of the surroundings. Natural lighting, sourced through skylights and expansive glass panels, creates a dynamic ambience that changes with the time of day, encouraging exploration and appreciation of both the wine and the landscape.

The architectural design also reflects careful consideration of acoustics, ensuring that the space can accommodate various group sizes for tastings and events without compromising sound quality. This consideration enhances the overall visitor experience, making it suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger events.

To understand more about the innovative architectural features, material choices, and the overall design of the "Mirage" Wine Tasting Room, explore the project presentation. Engage with the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the meticulous thought processes that shaped this project. Discover the architectural ideas that bring the vision of the "Mirage" to life.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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