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Reflections And Natural Light: Limestone And Wood Define A Harmonious Tasting Space

Authors:
Johnathen Day, Nathan Skrepcinski, Isaac Riu, Anthony Coscia
Reflections And Natural Light: Limestone And Wood Define A Harmonious Tasting Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating locally sourced limestone and warm wood elements, this elegant wine tasting room harmonizes with its vineyard surroundings while promoting a communal experience centered around the appreciation of fine wines.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced limestone for both exterior and interior elements, promoting sustainability.
02
Features a communal table crafted from natural wood, fostering social interaction among guests.
03
Incorporates extensive glass panels that maximize views and natural light throughout the space.
04
Includes a reflective fountain that enhances the sensory experience and connects to the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with natural ventilation strategies to reduce energy consumption and promote comfort.
Quinta do Monte d’Oiro is an architectural endeavor that reflects a thoughtful integration of form, function, and the surrounding landscape. Set within a picturesque wine-growing region, this project serves as a wine tasting room, fostering a connection between visitors and the viticultural practices that define the local culture. The design captures the essence of winemaking, incorporating elements of sustainability and natural beauty that enhance the overall experience.

The architecture of Quinta do Monte d’Oiro prioritizes harmony with its environment, using materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also locally sourced, thereby minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. The exterior features locally quarried limestone, which provides a sense of permanence and anchors the building within the site. This choice of material contributes to the structural integrity while facilitating a timeless design that respects the area's agricultural heritage.

The building's layout is intentionally designed to optimize the viewing experience of the vineyards and dramatic natural landscapes. The wine tasting room is organized as a linear space, allowing guests to engage with their environment in an unobstructed manner. The layout promotes social interaction, with a long communal table serving as the central feature. This design invites collaboration and sharing among visitors, mirroring the communal nature of wine tasting and encouraging conversations about the intricacies of winemaking.

Natural light plays a crucial role in the design of this wine tasting facility. The extensive use of glass panels not only enhances transparency but also integrates the interior spaces with the outdoor scenery. Large windows frame the picturesque views, bringing the outside in and creating an airy, vibrant atmosphere. As sunlight floods the interior, it highlights the rich textures of the wooden elements, such as the communal table, further establishing a warm, inviting ambiance.

An important aspect of the architectural design is the reflection fountain that accompanies the structure. This feature adds a layer of sensory engagement, as the sound of water flowing and the visual aspect of the reflective surface contribute to a serene environment. The fountain not only serves as a visual centerpiece but also creates a meditative space for visitors to relax and enjoy their surroundings. The integration of such water elements reinforces the project’s alignment with nature, emphasizing the significance of hydrology in the winemaking process.

A unique design approach evident in Quinta do Monte d’Oiro is the careful consideration of how the building interacts with seasonal changes. The architectural choices facilitate natural ventilation and climate responsiveness, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. This consideration not only enhances guest comfort but also embodies the principles of sustainability that are increasingly relevant in modern architectural practices.

The overall presentation of the project speaks to the notion of creating a sense of place that resonates with both local culture and the rhythms of nature. The thoughtful blend of modern architectural techniques with traditional materials ensures that Quinta do Monte d’Oiro is not merely a tasting room but a venue that embodies the spirit of the region it resides in. The project encourages a deeper understanding of the relationship between architecture and viticulture, inviting visitors to experience and appreciate this interconnection.

For those interested in exploring the full potential of this design, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will unveil further details and insights into how this project successfully merges aesthetics with functionality. Engaging with these elements offers a comprehensive perspective on the thoughtful methodologies employed in the creation of Quinta do Monte d’Oiro.
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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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