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Sunken Courtyards and Adobe Brick Create a Harmonious Hospitality Retreat

Author:
Meruert Zharekesheva
Sunken Courtyards and Adobe Brick Create a Harmonious Hospitality Retreat
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Sunken courtyards and angular volumes crafted from adobe brick create a distinctive blend of tradition and modernity in a hospitality retreat that connects visitors with the surrounding vineyards.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sunken courtyards enhance natural lighting and create private outdoor areas.
02
Solid adobe brick walls provide effective thermal insulation while linking to local traditions.
03
The design incorporates green roofs, supporting biodiversity and rainwater harvesting.
04
Angular volumes are carefully positioned to preserve the visual prominence of the historic chapel.
05
Each hotel room features a private loggia, offering unique views of the surrounding vineyards.

Hotel Pôr Do Sol is located in Quinta do Monte D'Oiro, surrounded by rolling vineyards that highlight the region's rich winemaking tradition. It serves as a retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and a deeper connection to nature. The design seeks to provide a modern hospitality experience while respecting the local heritage and environment.

Architectural Concept
The design consists of several angular volumes that interact with the landscape. These new buildings are intentionally kept lower than the existing chapel, allowing it to maintain its prominence within the scenery. This careful planning fosters a connection between the built structures and their natural surroundings. The arrangement not only preserves the site's historical elements but also encourages engagement with the outdoor environment.

Materiality
Solid adobe brick plays a central role in the construction of the hotel. This material provides effective thermal insulation, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Using adobe brick links the design to regional traditions, reflecting an understanding of local architecture. Additionally, green roofs are incorporated, which support biodiversity and help collect rainwater, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability in the design.

Spatial Arrangement
Inside the hotel, the layout is designed to improve the guest experience. The reception area is set within a sunken courtyard, providing views over the vineyards and the surrounding landscape. Each hotel room features its own loggia, offering private outdoor spaces for relaxation. This connection to nature is a significant aspect, enhancing the overall comfort of the stay.

Public Areas and Amenities
The hotel includes various public spaces, such as the Dining Hall and Recreational Area, linked by covered walkways. This connection facilitates easy movement throughout the facility while encouraging social interaction among guests. The landscape features gardens and water elements, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere and enhancing the natural beauty of the site.

A notable detail of the design is the sunken swimming pool garden. This feature allows natural light and air to flow freely, creating a quiet and serene space for guests. The integration of these thoughtful elements exemplifies how careful design can enhance the overall experience of a place.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Competition organisers

Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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