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Natural Stone And Glass Facades Enhance Community Spaces In A Sustainable Design

Author:
Gi suk Oh
Natural Stone And Glass Facades Enhance Community Spaces In A Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Natural stone and expansive glass facades create a seamless connection with the surrounding olive grove, offering a sustainable guesthouse that enhances the experience of local heritage and olive oil production.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural stone elements are integrated to blend the structure into the olive grove landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and an environmentally friendly approach.
03
Large glass facades maximize daylight and create visual continuity with the outdoor environment.
04
A bent A-frame design enhances structural stability while allowing for unique interior spaces.
05
Dedicated reflection areas promote engagement with the heritage of olive oil production.
The Verde Olive Guest House is a carefully designed architectural project set in central Portugal, intended to serve the Verde family and their olive oil production business. The design integrates the historical context of the site with contemporary architectural practices, emphasizing sustainability and cultural appreciation. This guesthouse functions as a space for visitors to experience the art of olive oil production while enjoying comfortable accommodations that celebrate the local environment.

Sustainable Design Principles

A foundational aspect of this project is its commitment to sustainable design principles. The architect has employed a careful selection of materials, sourcing locally to minimize environmental impact. Key materials include concrete, glass, and natural stone, which contribute to both durability and aesthetic cohesion with the surrounding landscape. The use of large glass windows creates visual connections to the outdoors, allowing natural light to fill the living spaces and promoting energy efficiency.

The architectural layout takes advantage of natural topography, positioning the structure to optimize airflow and passive cooling. Overhangs and trellises have been designed to protect the building from high summer temperatures, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to climate adaptation.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The guesthouse features a well-considered spatial organization that promotes a natural flow through its various functions. Central to the design is the multipurpose space, serving for olive oil tastings and communal gatherings. This area is characterized by high ceilings and open floor plans that enhance acoustic quality and spatial perception. Connected yet distinct guest quarters offer privacy while maintaining access to common facilities, balancing individual comfort with social interaction.

Important components of the guesthouse include designated reflection areas that pay homage to the site's history and significance. These spaces allow guests to engage with the narrative of olive oil production and the Verde family heritage, fostering a deeper connection to place.

Innovation in Landscape Integration

The architectural design extends beyond the built environment to include a comprehensive landscape strategy. Pathways, gardens, and native plant selections create a cohesive interaction between the structure and its natural surroundings. This integration enhances the overall aesthetic and functions to engage visitors with the local ecology. The careful design of outdoor spaces encourages exploration and relaxation, providing an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

For further insights into the architectural elements of the Verde Olive Guest House, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of how the design effectively merges function, sustainability, and cultural identity.
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Enter an open architecture
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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