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Natural Light and White Plaster Complement Sustainable Masonry in Iberian Lodge Design

Authors:
Eduardo antônio De paula souza e guimarães, Vânia maria Felchar, João batista Valle leme, Mateus Figueira barreto vilas boas
Natural Light and White Plaster Complement Sustainable Masonry in Iberian Lodge Design

Project in-detail

White plastered masonry and extensive glass elements create a seamless transition between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape, offering a sustainable lodge that celebrates the region's olive oil heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
White plastered masonry harmonizes with the local architectural tradition.
02
Extensive glass walls enhance natural light and provide landscape views.
03
A central distribution hall facilitates connectivity between guest suites.
04
Zenith openings allow sunlight to penetrate deeper into interior spaces.
05
Sustainable materials were selected to minimize environmental impact.
The Olive Oil Horizon Lodge is an architectural project located in the Iberian Peninsula, designed to serve as both a guest accommodation and a cultural hub centered around the heritage of olive oil production. The design integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, leveraging the topography to create a space that respects the local environment while fostering community engagement. The lodge promotes sustainable practices through its material selections and layout, creating a modern yet culturally relevant structure.

Cultural and Functional Integration
The architectural design emphasizes a deep connection to the history of olive oil, which has been a vital part of the local culture for centuries. The project features a series of guest suites with varied configurations, designed to accommodate diverse visitor needs. Communal areas, including a large kitchen and dining space, highlight the importance of culinary traditions in bringing individuals together. The central distribution hall serves as a circulation point, enhancing connectivity throughout the lodge's interiors and facilitating an easy flow to outdoor spaces.

Natural Light and Spatial Design
A defining feature of the design is the extensive use of glass walls, which provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This approach not only enhances natural light influx but also creates a strong visual relationship between indoor and outdoor environments. The incorporation of zenith openings furthers this connection, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into the structure. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces prioritizes both privacy and community interaction, distinguishing this lodge from other architectural projects that may prioritize one over the other.

Sustainable Materiality and Construction Techniques
The materials selected for the Olive Oil Horizon Lodge reflect a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Primary materials include masonry, wood, and EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate). The white plastered masonry pays homage to traditional Portuguese buildings, while the wood used for beams and flooring adds warmth and a contemporary touch. The design minimizes environmental impact through resource-efficient building techniques, making the lodge a model for sustainable architecture in the region.

The Olive Oil Horizon Lodge offers a contemporary interpretation of regional architectural traditions, thoughtfully blending cultural heritage with modern design principles. For further exploration of architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that inform this project, consider reviewing the detailed presentation of the lodge.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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