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Sustainable Pavilion With Mechanical Connections Overlooking Vineyards

Author:
Erpinio Labrozzi
Sustainable Pavilion With Mechanical Connections Overlooking Vineyards

Project in-detail

Constructed with mechanical connections and over 80% local biological materials, the pavilion offers a sustainable wine tasting experience while seamlessly integrating with the vineyards’ landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with mechanical connections allowing for easy disassembly and reuse.
02
Over 80% of the structure consists of locally sourced biological materials.
03
The design harnesses North winds for natural cooling during summer.
04
A suspended roof element provides essential shade for guests.
05
Large openings create a direct visual connection with the vineyards.

The Barrel is a floating pavilion designed to serve as a wine tasting room for Quinta Do Monte D'Oiro. It is located along Rua Sao Goncalo, positioned carefully to blend with the surrounding landscape. The design focuses on creating an unobtrusive space that takes advantage of the views over the vineyards. It offers a welcoming environment for visitors to enjoy local wines in a setting that connects them to nature.

Architectural Concept

Sustainability and functionality shape the design of The Barrel. During the summer, the building benefits from natural cooling provided by the North winds. A suspended roof element offers necessary shade, helping maintain a comfortable environment. This thoughtful design supports visitors’ enjoyment throughout the different seasons.

Construction and Sustainability

The Barrel embodies principles of "design for disassembly." It uses mechanical connections that allow for easy assembly and future deconstruction. This approach promotes the reuse of materials and sustainability in the construction process. More than 80% of the structure consists of locally sourced biological materials, reflecting a strong commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Interior Experience

The entrance is strategically placed at the crossroads of the approach path and the main building route, guiding visitors into the space. Large openings throughout the pavilion provide views of the surrounding landscape. This design choice fosters a connection between the interior and the outdoors, enhancing the wine tasting experience.

Photovoltaic panels are included to supply energy for heating in colder months. This addition reinforces a sustainable approach while ensuring comfort indoors. The combination of these features creates a pleasant atmosphere where guests can relax and appreciate the scenic beauty of the vineyards.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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