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Natural Transparency in Sustainable Design Through Steel and Glass Terracing in a Vineyard Setting

Authors:
Mary Polites, Ignacio Lopez buson
Natural Transparency in Sustainable Design Through Steel and Glass Terracing in a Vineyard Setting

Project in-detail

Blending glass and steel within terraced landscapes, the design creates a seamless connection with nature, offering an immersive wine tasting experience in the heart of a vineyard.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability while maintaining a lightweight design.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for their aesthetic appeal and weather resistance, adding a distinctive finish to the exterior.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light while creating a visually dynamic silhouette against the vineyard backdrop.
04
Terracing on the site is carefully planned to follow the natural topography, promoting sustainable water management practices.
05
Greenhouse elements within the structure actively engage visitors in educational workshops about viticulture and sustainability.
Located in the picturesque landscapes of Portugal, the architectural project "Apenas Linhas" is a beautifully crafted tasting terrace that merges seamlessly with the surrounding vineyard. This undertaking represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the winemaking process while enjoying the rural beauty. The design reflects a modern approach to wine tourism, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, thus fostering a connection between guests and the land they are exploring.

The primary function of "Apenas Linhas" is to create an immersive experience for visitors, enabling them to learn about viticulture through various interactions within the vineyard. The design arranges a series of terraces that ascend the natural topography, capturing stunning views of the landscape and creating distinct zones for activities such as wine tasting, dining, and educational workshops. This layout fosters an intimate setting that encourages exploration and social engagement. Each terrace serves as a vantage point, allowing guests to appreciate not only the vineyard but also the environmental aspects that contribute to the overall winemaking experience.

The project's architectural elements are meticulously considered to enhance both usability and harmony with the environment. The structure is primarily built from materials that echo the natural surroundings, such as steel for its durability, glass for transparency, and wood for warmth. Steel beams confer strength while being lightweight, ensuring that the structure can withstand the elements without overbearing the landscape. The use of glass promotes expansive views and allows ample natural light to illuminate the interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere. Wood contributes to the project's organic feel, offering tactile warmth and an aesthetic that resonates with the vineyard's cultural essence.

The project includes carefully designed greenhouses that complement the tasting terrace, providing an additional layer of engagement. These structures are not only functional for growing plants but also serve as educational spaces, where visitors can participate in workshops and learn about the sustainability practices essential to modern winemaking. The greenhouses, with their living roofs and biophilic design, further emphasize the connection to nature, inviting the surrounding flora into the visitor experience.

An important aspect of the design is water management. By employing integrated systems that channel rainwater and minimize runoff, the project promotes ecological sustainability. This attention to environmental stewardship resonates through the overall design philosophy, aiming to preserve the vineyard's integrity while enhancing its usability for education and enjoyment.

What makes "Apenas Linhas" particularly noteworthy is its unique ability to harmonize contemporary architectural practices with the traditional values of viticulture. The terraces weave through the landscape, evoking a sense of harmony between the built environment and the vineyard ecosystem. Each design choice is deliberate, creating spaces that are both functional and meaningful, enhancing the visitor's understanding of and connection to wine production.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections that offer deeper insights into this project, showcasing how thoughtful design decisions translate into a cohesive architectural statement. Architectural ideas are enriched through this project, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices while celebrating the cultural significance of winemaking. By engaging with "Apenas Linhas," one can appreciate how architecture can serve not only as a backdrop but also as an active participant in the narrative of an experiential journey. Engaging further with the project's elements provides greater clarity and understanding of the holistic intention behind its design and functionality.
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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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