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Rammed Earth Walls and Green Roofs Create a Harmonious Guest Experience in a Natural Setting

Authors:
Joanna maria Lesna, Andrea Terceros
Rammed Earth Walls and Green Roofs Create a Harmonious Guest Experience in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and elevated by green roofs, this guest house integrates seamlessly with the landscape, offering an immersive experience in local winemaking traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a green roof that supports local biodiversity and reduces energy consumption.
02
Utilizes rammed earth construction for thermal mass and natural cooling, minimizing reliance on HVAC systems.
03
Features a large tasting room that opens directly to outdoor courtyards, enhancing the guest experience with nature.
04
Incorporates expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that frame picturesque views while promoting natural light.
05
Integrates native vegetation, including olive trees, into the landscaping for ecological harmony and local character.
The Familia Verde Olive Guest House exemplifies a thoughtful approach to modern architecture, situated in the picturesque landscape of Portugal. This project represents a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional regional influences, creating a unique space that serves as a retreat for visitors while highlighting the rich cultural narrative of the area. The guesthouse's primary function is to provide a warm, inviting environment where guests can immerse themselves in local winemaking traditions, specifically the Verde family’s heritage, while enjoying the natural beauty surrounding them.

At the heart of the design are carefully planned spatial arrangements that effectively cater to various activities. The guesthouse is strategically divided into public and private zones, ensuring guests can enjoy communal experiences while also finding intimate spaces for relaxation. Central to the project is a tasting room, designed to offer an authentic experience for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This space fosters social interaction and cultural exchange, celebrating the essence of the Verde family's winemaking practices.

A distinctive characteristic of the design is its commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. The choice of materials reflects this ethos, utilizing rammed earth for walls, which not only enhances thermal performance but also complements the natural surroundings. The inclusion of pine wood for the façade and interior furnishings adds warmth, while limestone flooring contributes to both aesthetic appeal and durability. Terracotta tiles, commonly used in local architecture, strengthen the connection to traditional building practices and lend authenticity to the project.

The building's form exhibits a modern architectural vocabulary, featuring flat and sloping green roofs that enhance biodiversity and reduce energy consumption. These roofs are not only practical, facilitating natural cooling and air circulation, but also visually integrate the guesthouse into the landscape. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light and provide panoramic views of the surrounding environment. This design approach emphasizes the relationship between interior spaces and the natural world, allowing guests to fully engage with their setting.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. For instance, the landscaped areas include reflective pools and private courtyards that enhance the experiential quality of the outdoor environment. These elements promote relaxation and tranquility, encouraging guests to spend time in nature while offering a serene backdrop for gatherings. The thoughtful integration of native vegetation, including olive trees, further enhances the project’s sustainability and aesthetic value, creating landscapes that align perfectly with the architectural vision.

In summary, the Familia Verde Olive Guest House is a testament to modern architecture that respects its historical context and environmental responsibilities. The project effectively balances sophisticated design with functional spaces, encouraging an appreciation for the local culture and environment. The careful consideration of materials, along with innovative architectural solutions, showcases a profound understanding of how architecture can serve people and their surroundings. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that inform this project, exploring the detailed presentation is highly encouraged. This exploration will broaden understanding of the unique architectural ideas that define the Familia Verde Olive Guest House and its meaningful connection to the landscape it inhabits.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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