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Sedum-Covered Roof and Pigmented Concrete Inviting Community Engagement in a Sunken Wine Tasting Room

Authors:
Liam Mulheran, Michael Denyer
Sedum-Covered Roof and Pigmented Concrete Inviting Community Engagement in a Sunken Wine Tasting Room

Project in-detail

A sunken wine tasting room clad in pigmented concrete and topped with a sedum-covered roof creates a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape while facilitating community engagement through shared experiences in the art of viticulture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The sunken design enhances thermal stability while providing unobstructed vineyard views.
02
A sedum-covered roof increases biodiversity and improves insulation for the tasting room.
03
The use of pigmented concrete integrates the structure seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
04
Extensive glazing invites natural light and fosters a strong connection between indoors and outdoors.
05
The communal table in the center of the space promotes social interaction and enhances the wine-tasting experience.
The Sunken Wine Room at Monte de' Orio presents a thoughtful exploration of architecture that marries functionality with an intimate connection to the landscape. This project is a contemporary addition to a winery that serves not only as a tasting room but also as a space for community engagement and appreciation of viticulture. The design reflects a careful consideration of its surroundings and embraces the thematic essence of wine tasting in a manner that resonates with visitors.

At its core, the Sunken Wine Room functions to provide a dedicated area for wine tastings and related activities while enhancing the visitor experience. The project embraces a sunken design, which offers a unique spatial experience that engages visitors as they enter the room. This approach allows the structure to blend naturally into the terrain, creating a seamless transition between the built environment and the lush vineyards that envelop it. The idea of sinking the room not only serves aesthetic purposes but also contributes to thermal stability, ensuring a comfortable environment for its users regardless of external weather conditions.

The architectural design prominently features a material palette that emphasizes harmony with nature. The use of pigmented concrete for the facades is particularly notable, as it reflects the earth tones of the surrounding landscape, allowing the building to maintain a low profile without sacrificing visual interest. This choice of material is complemented by the application of Portuguese limestone tiles on the floor, which adds a touch of elegance while remaining grounded in local craftsmanship. The sedum roof, incorporating vegetation, acts as a canvas for natural growth, enhancing both the structure's ecological footprint and its aesthetic value.

The interior of the Sunken Wine Room is organized around a central communal tasting area, exceptionally designed to facilitate interaction among visitors. High ceilings adorned with timber beams create a sense of space, while large glass panels invite natural light to permeate the area, dissolving barriers between the inside and the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful choice not only enhances the ambiance but also allows guests to enjoy sweeping views of the vineyards, reinforcing the sense of connection to the local terroir.

Additional functional elements, such as a tasting bar positioned to create engagement with the events around it, enhance user experience. The arrangement of the communal table encourages social interactions, fostering a communal atmosphere that is central to the wine-tasting experience. Additionally, conveniently located restrooms and storage areas ensure that operational needs are met without detracting from the overall design flow.

The project exemplifies unique design approaches that cater to the necessities of a modern winery. By placing a focus on natural materials, the design remains true to its site while promoting sustainability. The integration of landscaping softens the structure, promoting biodiversity and creating a visually appealing approach to the building. Furthermore, the project is a manifestation of architectural ideas that prioritize user experience, local context, and sustainability.

Overall, the Sunken Wine Room at Monte de' Orio stands as a testament to the possibilities within contemporary architectural design. For those interested in exploring the intricate details and unique concepts that embody this project, reviewing architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide further insights into the innovation and craftsmanship that characterize this exceptional space. This project invites visitors into a newly defined realm of wine tasting, encouraging a deeper appreciation of both the craft and the landscape that supports it.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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