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Red Brick and Timber Screens Envelop a Central O-live Tree in a Communal Residential Space

Authors:
Chuck ty Yeoh, Mario Luz, Richard Dalman, Matthew Wang
Red Brick and Timber Screens Envelop a Central O-live Tree in a Communal Residential Space

Project in-detail

A central O-live tree is seamlessly integrated into a sunken courtyard, surrounded by red brick walls and timber screens that foster communal living in a thoughtfully designed residential space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project uniquely centers around a mature O-live tree within a sunken courtyard, creating a natural focal point.
02
Red brick construction is combined with timber screens to enhance ventilation while providing aesthetic value and privacy.
03
The tiered design allows for distinct communal and private spaces, fostering both interaction and solitude.
04
Sustainable features like rainwater collection systems are integrated to promote ecological efficiency in daily living.
05
The incorporation of a plunge pool and meditation pavilion emphasizes wellness and relaxation within the residential environment.
The O-Live House is a thoughtfully designed residential project that encapsulates the essence of modern living through a blend of traditional Portuguese architectural elements and contemporary design philosophies. This project is grounded in the idea of fostering community while providing a sanctuary for individual reflection. Central to the design is a sunken courtyard featuring an O-live tree, which serves not only as a focal point but as a symbol of connectivity and life. Such a concept reinforces the building’s role as a social hub while promoting a balance between communal interaction and personal privacy.

Functionally, the O-Live House is designed to accommodate various lifestyle needs, with distinct zones that seamlessly interconnect yet maintain their individuality. The spatial configuration prioritizes accessibility and flow, allowing for a natural progression from communal spaces to private retreats. The ground floor hosts activities that encourage gathering, comprising a kitchen, lobby lounge, and dining area, all oriented towards the central courtyard. This orientation invites light and enhances the experience of being in a space that promotes coexistence.

The architectural layout features two upper levels dedicated to private living areas, primarily bedrooms, which are connected back to the communal heart of the home. This tiered arrangement not only maximizes comfort but also ensures that every room retains a sense of connection to the outdoors, an essential aspect of modern residential design. Unique design elements include a plunge pool, a BBQ deck, and a meditation pavilion, which elevate the overall living experience by providing dedicated spaces for relaxation and leisure.

In terms of materiality, the O-Live House exhibits a careful selection of locally sourced materials that reinforce its architectural identity. Red bricks are prominent at the base of the structure, echoing traditional building techniques found in the region and grounding the project in its cultural context. The use of red tiles for the roofing adds a layer of authenticity and continuity, while also addressing practical concerns such as drainage. Timber screens are employed not only for their aesthetic contribution but also for their functionality, providing shade and privacy while framing scenic views.

Concrete panels are integrated thoughtfully within the design, offering modernity and structural robustness. This juxtaposition of materials—the warmth of bricks combined with the sleekness of concrete—creates a visually satisfying contrast that is both inviting and sophisticated.

The O-Live House also embodies principles of sustainability, showcasing architectural ideas that respect the environment. Its orientation allows for ample natural light, while the tiered rings facilitate cross-ventilation, enhancing air quality and reducing the need for artificial climate control. Rainwater collection systems and attention to energy-efficient materials further underscore the project's commitment to ecological responsibility, aligning with contemporary values regarding sustainable living.

This project represents more than just a residence; it is a paradigm of how thoughtful architecture can influence lifestyle while remaining sensitive to its context. The O-Live House illustrates how effective design can cultivate a sense of community, creating spaces that encourage interaction while providing the necessary retreat for personal solace.

To explore the intricacies of the project further, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation. Delving into these elements can provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that characterize the O-Live House and its significance in today’s architectural discourse.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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