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Rammed Earth and Cork Integration in a Community-Centric Guest House

Author:
Kübra Harputluoğlu
Rammed Earth and Cork Integration in a Community-Centric Guest House

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth and cork, the design creates a sustainable, community-focused guest house that harmonizes with its olive grove surroundings, providing an immersive experience in local culture and ecology.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for thermal efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
02
Incorporates cork insulation, enhancing soundproofing and sustainability.
03
Features a multifunctional courtyard that encourages community interaction and gatherings.
04
Integrates a demonstration kitchen showcasing local culinary traditions.
05
Designed with stepped forms to blend naturally into the olive grove landscape.
The Portugal Olive Guest House is a contemporary architectural project situated in Barrera, Portugal. This design focuses on integrating the surrounding landscape with the structure, utilizing local materials and traditional building techniques. The guest house not only serves as a place for visitors to stay but also acts as a hub for cultural interaction and education around olive farming and regional heritage.

The architectural design prioritizes sustainability, showcasing thoughtful choices in materiality and construction methods. By employing locally sourced materials such as rammed earth, cork, terracotta, oak, and stone, the project resonates with the area’s geological context while minimizing its environmental footprint. The layout centers around a multifunctional courtyard, promoting communal engagement and interaction among guests.

Design Integration with Landscape

The primary design approach of the Portugal Olive Guest House emphasizes a seamless interaction between the building and its natural setting. The central courtyard acts as a focal point, enabling social interactions while visually connecting the interior spaces with outdoor olive groves. The stepped forms of the structure echo the existing topography, reducing the visual impact on the landscape and ensuring aesthetic coherence.

Unique features of the project include a demonstration kitchen and multi-purpose room designed for various events, reinforcing its role as a community hub. The use of thermal mass materials contributes to energy efficiency, while expansive glass walls provide connections to views of the olive trees and the surrounding environment. The incorporation of local agricultural practices into the guest experience demonstrates a commitment to cultural heritage and education, distinguishing this project from typical hospitality designs.

Sustainable Architectural Practices

A significant aspect of the architectural design is its commitment to environmental sustainability. Water management systems guide rainwater runoff, promoting responsible usage and irrigating the olive grove on-site. The choice of materials such as rammed earth and cork enhances thermal performance, providing natural cooling and heating solutions without reliance on mechanical systems.

The architectural forms and motifs reflect traditional regional styles while meeting modern aesthetic and functional standards. The design respects and preserves local cultural narratives, inviting guests to engage with the site authentically. Careful attention to detail in the assembly and finish further reinforces the project's connection to the region's history and lifestyle.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind the Portugal Olive Guest House, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation to understand its comprehensive approach to architecture and community engagement.
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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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