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Reflecting Pools and Ceramic Tiles in a Sensory Wine Tasting Experience

Authors:
Alicia Ahonen, Tejal Lad
Reflecting Pools and Ceramic Tiles in a Sensory Wine Tasting Experience

Project in-detail

Ceramic tiles interspersed throughout the space complement the reflecting pools, enhancing the sensory engagement of visitors in an immersive wine tasting experience set within the expansive vineyards.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ceramic tile features showcase local artistry while enhancing the tactile experience.
02
Reflecting pools provide passive cooling and create a tranquil atmosphere.
03
A dedicated bar area allows for a direct sensory engagement with aromas.
04
Training vines are positioned alongside the venue's logo for visual impact.
05
Outdoor patios extend the tasting experience, connecting guests with nature.

The design focuses on creating a wine tasting experience, set against the backdrop of vast vineyards. The building organizes the tasting process into three main phases: Observing, Smelling, and Tasting. This structure not only enhances the functional aspects of the space but also strengthens the connection between the venue and the surrounding landscape. It invites guests to engage fully with both the wine and its origins.

Observing

Guests enter the tasting room through a portal situated between two large sections of the building. This design element allows for a limited but intriguing view of the vineyards, creating anticipation as visitors step inside. This initial experience establishes a direct visual link to the landscape, making it an essential part of the journey ahead.

Smelling

As visitors proceed, they encounter a bar area on the left. Here, wine is served alongside flavor enhancers that ignite the senses. The aromas from both the beverages and food contribute to the atmosphere, enriching the wine tasting experience. This thoughtful arrangement encourages guests to be aware of the sensory elements involved in enjoying wine, adding depth to their visit.

Tasting

The heart of the experience is found in the tasting room, which is designed to provide expansive views of the vineyards. This area includes both a wide main view and a more intimate secondary perspective that connects with an outdoor patio. Access to the patio invites guests to interact more closely with the natural elements, allowing them to enjoy their wine tasting in a setting that emphasizes the beauty of the landscape.

Water Features

Water is an important aspect of the design, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. Its presence symbolizes a gentle motion that surrounds the structure. Incorpation of water features also offers passive cooling and supports rainwater harvesting. These elements contribute to a serene atmosphere that aligns well with the focus on wine tasting, reinforcing the connection to the local landscape.

The placement of training vines next to the Monte d'Oiro logo provides a chance for guests to take photos without needing to leave the property. The furniture is carefully designed to accommodate different group sizes, with adequate storage for glasses and wine to ensure a smooth tasting experience. Additionally, local artists have the opportunity to display their work in a featured ceramic tile area, further deepening the connection to the community.

Overall, the design integrates the sensory journey of wine tasting with the natural beauty of the vineyards, ensuring that visitors remain aware of the landscape's presence throughout their experience. The spaces encourage continuous exploration of both the wine and its surroundings, creating a comprehensive engagement with the local environment.

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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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