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Rammed Earth Walls and Foldable Aluminum Roofs for an Interactive Wine Tasting Experience

Author:
Marios Kasiouli
Rammed Earth Walls and Foldable Aluminum Roofs for an Interactive Wine Tasting Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and a foldable aluminum roof, the space enhances the wine tasting experience by fostering interaction and connection among guests while seamlessly integrating with its vineyard setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide thermal mass and sustainability.
02
A foldable aluminum roof allows for adaptability to weather conditions.
03
Open glass façades enhance views of the surrounding vineyard.
04
Outdoor pergola features deciduous plants for seasonal shading.
05
The table is designed to encourage social interaction among guests.

The design at Quinta do Monte d'Oiro creates a dedicated space for wine tasting that highlights both the beauty of the surroundings and the importance of user experience. Located within a picturesque vineyard, the aim is to create a harmonious environment where visitors can appreciate wine while being connected to nature. The overall design focuses on blending the indoor spaces with the outdoor landscape, providing a welcoming atmosphere for social interaction.

Environmental Considerations

This project places significant emphasis on environmental factors that contribute to comfort. The building is arranged to make the most of natural light and ventilation, which helps maintain a pleasant interior climate. Large openings to the views of grape fields enhance the connection between inside and outside. This arrangement allows visitors to enjoy not only the wines but also the surrounding landscape, integrating the experience of wine tasting with the natural environment.

Cultural Context

Local architectural traditions heavily influence the design. By using elements characteristic of the region, the building respects its cultural background while promoting sustainable practices. This approach is aimed at creating a familiar space for visitors who may be rooted in local traditions but also appeals to newcomers. It anchors the building within its geographical context and provides a connection to the local community.

Social Interaction

A main focus of the design is the table, which serves as more than just a place to pour wine. It acts as a gathering spot where people can converse and connect. The layout encourages interactions through a careful arrangement of seating and space, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The design seeks to ensure that the experience of wine tasting is about more than just the wine itself; it's about the shared moments between people.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a key theme throughout the design, achieved through various thoughtful strategies. Features such as foldable aluminum roofs allow flexibility in response to changing weather conditions, while rammed earth walls support energy efficiency. Adequate insulation helps maintain temperature control, contributing to a sustainable environment.

The wine tasting room features open glass façades that not only maximize views but also enhance natural light. A pergola covered with deciduous plants provides shade during hot months and allows sunlight in winter, enriching the experience for visitors. This careful attention to detail reflects a commitment to both functionality and the overall experience of being in such a beautiful location.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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