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Rammed Earth Vault Embracing Natural Views for Wine Tasting

Authors:
Lucas Hadjimichalis, Tristan Welty, Pierre Testet
Rammed Earth Vault Embracing Natural Views for Wine Tasting
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Constructed from rammed earth, this wine tasting space is partially underground, maximizing thermal efficiency while offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from rammed red earth, enhancing environmental sustainability.
02
Partially underground design optimizes thermal efficiency and comfort.
03
Strategically oriented to capture uninterrupted natural views for visitors.
04
Interior spaces foster a direct connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Emphasizes a seamless integration of wine tasting and dining experiences.

The Wine Vault is a wine tasting space at Quinta do Monte d'Oiro, designed to blend with the surrounding landscape while enhancing visitor experiences. The structure is partly built underground, which allows guests to enjoy wine tasting without outside interruptions. This design focuses on the connection between architecture and nature, creating a serene place that celebrates both the local environment and the wines crafted at the estate.

Architecture Concept

The design highlights the relationship between the building and its landscape. By placing the structure partially underground, it provides a cozy, inviting space that encourages visitors to connect with nature. The careful positioning of the building is intended to maximize views of the landscape while minimizing impact on the land. This approach provides a tranquil environment for tasting and appreciation.

Material Efficiency

Rammed red earth is the primary building material, selected for its natural insulating properties. This material helps maintain a consistent internal climate that is ideal for storing wine. Using rammed earth demonstrates a focus on sustainable building practices while also ensuring the comfort of visitors. The inclusion of natural ground and gravel as foundational elements further supports the project’s commitment to working in harmony with its environment.

Interior Space Design

The interior of the Wine Vault is designed for both tasting and dining, encouraging full engagement with the wines. The underground nature of the space fosters a secluded atmosphere, allowing patrons to concentrate on the flavors and aromas of the wines as well as the beauty of their surroundings. Each area is thoughtfully arranged, enhancing both functionality and the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Natural light filters through openings in the structure, illuminating the interior while framing views of the landscape outside. The design allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of the wine estate without distractions. This attention to detail creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the connection between the wine, the environment, and the people enjoying it.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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