5 key facts about this project
### Project Overview
The Olive Oil Horizon Lodge is located on the Iberian Peninsula, an area steeped in a long-standing tradition of olive oil production. The design of the lodge pays homage to the region's historical context, incorporating traditional architectural elements within a modern framework. The project aims to create an engaging relationship with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing sustainability and minimal impact on the natural terrain.
### Architectural Design and Materiality
The lodge exemplifies a balanced integration of traditional references and contemporary design principles. Key features include the strategic layout that optimizes the site's topography for guest accommodations, ensuring unobstructed views while maintaining environmental sensitivity. The material palette is carefully selected to reflect both local architectural styles and sustainability:
- **Masonry**: The primary structure uses masonry with a white plaster finish, echoing traditional Portuguese construction.
- **EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)**: This material serves as a durable, water-resistant membrane, contributing to the lodge's longevity.
- **Wood**: Incorporated in beams and slab elements, wood adds a warm, modern aesthetic that complements the overall design language.
The design prioritizes sustainability by employing high-quality materials and innovative construction methods, resulting in a structure that allows contemporary functionality while respecting traditional architecture.
### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The spatial organization of the lodge is designed for both practicality and aesthetic coherence. The ground floor features a variety of guest accommodations, including suites with flexible bedding arrangements and bathrooms, alongside communal areas that foster interaction. A central distribution hall enhances circulation throughout the lodge, featuring zenith openings that allow ample natural light to penetrate the interior spaces.
Adjacent to the natural landscape, a dedicated meditation space further encourages connection with the environment, promoting a sense of tranquility. Landscaping plays a vital role in the overall design narrative, incorporating aromatic plant species that enhance the sensory experience while reflecting the region's olive cultivation heritage. The thoughtful integration of external and internal spaces, along with the use of glass walls, fosters an interactive experience with the surrounding nature.