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Natural Stone and Glass Integration in a Vineyard Retreat for Wine Tasting

Authors:
Samuel Maddox, Mark Emons, Michael Martinez
Natural Stone and Glass Integration in a Vineyard Retreat for Wine Tasting

Project in-detail

Crafted with natural stone and expansive glass walls, the design seamlessly bridges indoor spaces with vineyard views, creating a functional environment for wine tasting and social gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a blend of natural stone and glass, enhancing the connection with the vineyard.
02
Incorporates an outdoor courtyard that fosters social interaction between tasting rooms.
03
Features a sustainable approach by maximizing natural light and ventilation.
04
Utilizes local materials that reflect the regional architectural heritage.
05
Offers flexible spaces that can accommodate both large gatherings and intimate experiences.
The Monte d’Oiro Wine Rooms project, situated in Alenquer, Portugal, represents a thoughtful convergence of contemporary architecture and the region's rich viticultural heritage. This project serves as a dedicated space for wine tasting, promoting interaction among visitors and a deeper appreciation of local wines. The wine rooms are designed to accommodate varied group sizes, offering multiple environments tailored for both large and intimate gatherings.

Interior Layout and Functionality

The layout features two distinct tasting areas: a spacious large tasting room suitable for larger groups and a smaller room designed for intimate wine experiences. The structure is complemented by an outdoor courtyard that links the two tasting rooms, facilitating movement and social interaction. This design encourages engagement between guests, enhancing the overall wine tasting experience. The careful consideration of spatial organization ensures that each area seamlessly transitions into the next, guided by clear pathways and visual connectivity.

Architectural Materiality and Sustainable Design

Material selection plays a significant role in the design and functionality of the Monte d’Oiro Wine Rooms. Natural stone forms the primary structural element, providing stability while reflecting the local context. Stucco finishes contrast with this rugged material, adding texture to the walls and enhancing the aesthetic quality of the interiors. Expansive glass walls bring natural light into the tasting areas and create visual links to the vineyard landscape, emphasizing transparency and openness.

Wooden beams not only support the roof but also contribute warmth to the internal atmosphere. This combination of materials emphasizes durability and sustainability while honoring traditional construction techniques. The project’s design promotes energy efficiency, utilizing positioning and orientation to optimize natural light and ventilation, thus reducing reliance on artificial resources.

Cohesion with Landscape

The Monte d’Oiro Wine Rooms prioritize a cohesive relationship with the surrounding vineyard. Thoughtful landscaping complements the architectural elements, incorporating local flora that integrates the building into its environment. The outdoor courtyard serves as a transitional space that allows visitors to engage with the natural landscape, reinforcing the connection between the wine experience and its origin.

The project operates as both a functional space and a cultural touchstone, emphasizing the importance of wine in local heritage. By thoughtfully navigating architectural design, material selection, and contextual integration, the Monte d’Oiro Wine Rooms emerge as a relevant model within the spectrum of modern wine-related architecture.

For a comprehensive exploration of this project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative design concepts, readers are encouraged to examine the project presentation in further detail.
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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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