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Reflection Fountain and Local Limestone Define a Modern Winery Experience

Authors:
Johnathen Day, Nathan Skrepcinski, Isaac Riu, Anthony Coscia
Reflection Fountain and Local Limestone Define a Modern Winery Experience
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A reflection fountain encircles a linear structure of local limestone, creating a unique environment for wine tasting that emphasizes connections between water, nature, and the cultivation of fine wines.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflection fountain enhances the connection between water and winemaking.
02
Local limestone cut in horizontal strips references vineyard rows.
03
Linear structure promotes social interaction among up to 30 guests.
04
Retractable doors facilitate natural ventilation and outdoor access.
05
Custom French oak tasting table fosters conversation during wine tasting.

Quinta do Monte d'Oiro is located in Estremadura, Alenquer, north of Lisbon, an area known for its excellent terroir that has supported winemaking since the 17th century. The winery blends wine production, gastronomy, and thoughtful design, focusing on sustainability and community. It invites visitors to enjoy wine tasting while experiencing the beauty of the vineyard.

Design Layout

The building features a linear arrangement that encourages social interaction among guests, accommodating up to 30 people. This layout promotes a friendly environment for relaxation and tasting. A standout element is the reflection fountain surrounding the wine tasting room. It highlights the connection between water and winemaking, adding an engaging visual aspect to the experience.

Natural Light Integration

Natural light is integral to the design. Large glass panels are used throughout the building, allowing sunlight to fill the spaces and offering views of the vineyard. Retractable doors create a strong link between inside and outside, promoting airflow while enhancing the connection to the landscape.

Architectural Features

The roof of Quinta do Monte d'Oiro has a sculptural form that adds visual interest and assists with lighting. It allows for natural light to filter in and frames scenic views of the surroundings. This thoughtful design feature helps create a welcoming atmosphere at different times of the day.

Material Selection

The project primarily uses locally sourced limestone and smooth-troweled plaster. The limestone is cut into horizontal strips that resemble the rows of vines, establishing a connection to the vineyard. The white plaster serves to unify the aesthetic with other buildings in the area, respecting the local architectural style.

A notable detail is the tasting table made from French oak, which mirrors the barrels used for aging wine. This table design fosters conversation and interaction among guests, adding to the overall experience of wine tasting at Quinta do Monte d'Oiro.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
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