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Rammed Earth Walls Framing Natural Views in a Vineyard Setting

Author:
Clarissa Quarchioni
Rammed Earth Walls Framing Natural Views in a Vineyard Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls that mirror the surrounding vineyard landscape, the design fosters a deep connection with nature while serving as a versatile space for wine tasting and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls enhance thermal insulation and soundproofing.
02
Wooden slats provide shade while creating a visual link to the vineyard.
03
Modular table system inspired by Portuguese majolica allows flexible arrangements.
04
Interior and exterior pathways promote seamless movement and accessibility.
05
Large openings frame scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Quinta do Monte d'Oiro is situated within a vineyard landscape, designed to serve as a shared space for wine production and tasting. The project blends with its natural surroundings, reflecting a dedication to both functionality and sustainability. The design focuses on creating a strong connection to the environment, highlighting local traditions while offering a modern venue for community engagement.

Rammed Earth Wall

Central to the design is a rammed earth wall. This wall is more than just a structural component; it represents the very earth that supports the vineyard. This choice of material provides not only a link to the landscape but also contributes to thermal comfort inside the building. The wall’s ability to store warmth and buffer sound enhances the quality of the interior spaces. This approach aligns with sustainable building practices while maintaining a sense of place.

Vertical Striped Pattern

The exterior features a vertical striped pattern inspired by the rows of vines that define the vineyard. This design element creates a visual relationship between the building and its agricultural context. The slats made from wood not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also provide shade and protection from direct sunlight. Using wood throughout the project helps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering a connection between the architecture and the landscape.

Interior Adaptability

Inside, the layout is designed for flexibility, able to accommodate a variety of events from formal dinners to casual gatherings. A modular system of tables takes inspiration from Portuguese majolica, allowing for different arrangements to suit the needs of the users. This design supports interaction among guests and encourages a lively atmosphere. The flow of movement is carefully considered, ensuring that pathways are accessible and inviting while linking indoor spaces with the outdoors.

Light Control Features

Control of natural light is achieved through sliding wooden panels that block out sunlight when needed. These features help adjust the brightness of the interior, allowing for a comfortable experience throughout the day. This thoughtful detail demonstrates an awareness of environmental conditions, enhancing the way visitors engage with the space.

Large openings in the interior frame views of the vineyard, drawing the outside in. The design allows guests to feel immersed in the natural environment, creating an experience that is connected and grounded in its setting.

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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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