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Terracotta Facades and Green Integration in a Communal Wine Tasting Venue

Author:
Arineh Soukiassian
Terracotta Facades and Green Integration in a Communal Wine Tasting Venue

Project in-detail

With its broken arch and adaptable table at the heart of a space defined by terracotta facades and natural ventilation, the design serves as a serene venue for communal wine tasting amidst the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a broken arch, symbolizing the blend of cultural influences.
02
The central table can be adjusted to accommodate various group sizes.
03
Natural ventilation is facilitated through a two-layered roof structure.
04
Terracotta facades connect the building to the region's traditional materials.
05
Curving metal features integrate greenery into the architectural design.

The Monte d'Oiro Wine Tasting Room is located in Portugal's renowned wine region, designed to improve the experience of tasting wine. The space focuses on creating an inviting atmosphere that is open and comfortable. Guests, whether seasoned wine tasters or newcomers, can connect with the wine and appreciate the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Influences

The design reflects Portugal’s diverse cultural heritage by blending historical and modern elements. A key feature is the broken arch, which symbolizes the connection between different architectural styles. This element serves to draw visitors in and create a welcoming environment that honors the tradition and craft of winemaking.

Spatial Organization

A large table sits at the heart of the space, capable of seating four to thirty people. This table fosters social interaction and enhances the experience of enjoying wine together. Its adjustable design allows for flexibility in gatherings, making it suitable for both small groups and larger events. This emphasis on community is central to the purpose of the room.

Roof Design and Sustainability

The roof features a two-layered design inspired by Islamic domes and wind towers. This shape not only looks appealing but also helps with energy efficiency by allowing for natural ventilation. It provides comfort for those tasting wine while also reminding visitors of the environmental considerations inherent in the design. The roof becomes a distinctive aspect of the overall aesthetic.

Material Choices and Natural Elements

Material selection plays an important role in the overall impact of the Wine Tasting Room. Clay bricks evoke a sense of warmth and a connection to the earth, while ceramics enhance both functionality and visual appeal. Glazed metal sheet facades engage with the surroundings, reflecting traditional Portuguese architecture within a modern framework. Landscaping includes curving metal features that bring greenery into the design, further linking the outdoors with the interior.

The carefully placed skylights along the roofline fill the tasting room with natural light, creating an ambiance that complements the appreciation of wine.

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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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