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Sunken Courtyard Embracing Local Red Bricks and Timber Screens for Communal Living

Authors:
Chuck ty Yeoh, Mario Luz, Richard Dalman, Matthew Wang
Sunken Courtyard Embracing Local Red Bricks and Timber Screens for Communal Living

Project in-detail

A sunken courtyard centered around an O-live tree enhances communal living, defined by locally sourced red bricks and functional timber screens that create a harmonious balance between social interaction and personal retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates a central O-live tree within a sunken courtyard, emphasizing a connection to nature.
02
Local red bricks are used for the exterior, reflecting regional architectural heritage.
03
Timber screens provide shading while allowing for natural light penetration into living spaces.
04
Distinct functional zones are defined by tiered levels, promoting both privacy and community interaction.
05
Passive cooling is achieved through the courtyard's design, enhancing energy efficiency throughout the residence.
The O-Live House is an architectural project located in Portugal that integrates modern living with traditional elements. Designed around a sunken courtyard featuring an O-live tree, the structure emphasizes community interaction and sustainability. The design revolves around a series of tiered rings that encircle the courtyard, promoting a cohesive flow of spaces while enhancing daylight and views throughout the residence.

The project functions primarily as a family home, facilitating both private and communal living. The central courtyard, serving as a gathering area, is complemented by various zones dedicated to relaxation, recreation, and private retreat. This arrangement enhances comfort and encourages socialization while maintaining personal privacy.

Unique Design Approaches

A key aspect of the O-Live House is its strategic use of locally sourced materials, such as red bricks and red roof tiles, which reflect the region's architectural heritage. The incorporation of timber screens offers shading and visual privacy, serving as a thoughtful response to environmental conditions. Concrete panels are also employed, allowing for cantilevers and structural stability while juxtaposing traditional and modern design paradigms.

The layout delineates distinct functional areas. The rejuvenation zone consists of the meditation pavilion and plunge pool, promoting wellness activities. The revitalization area includes a lobby lounge and BBQ deck, designed for family gatherings and social events. The relaxed living space features an open-plan kitchen that seamlessly transitions to outdoor terraces, encouraging connectivity among family members. The retreat zones consist of lower-ground bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, creating private sanctuaries that remain linked to the community-centric courtyard.

The emphasis on the O-live tree within the courtyard promotes an ongoing relationship with nature. Its presence not only enhances environmental aesthetics but also serves as a natural climate regulator, fostering a tranquil living atmosphere. Natural light plays an important role throughout the space, with openings designed to optimize both daylight penetration and ventilation.

Architectural details, such as shaded outdoor areas and the grouping of functions, establish a coherent narrative of interaction and engagement. These elements contribute to the project's overall sustainability by reducing the reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, allowing occupants to live comfortably within their environment.

For those interested in understanding the O-Live House's architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, further exploration of the project presentation is recommended. Reviewing the architectural designs can provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that permeate this residence.
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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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