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Terracotta Roof and Olive Motif Blend in Sustainable Guest House Design

Author:
John Iacobacci
Terracotta Roof and Olive Motif Blend in Sustainable Guest House Design

Project in-detail

The integration of a terracotta roof and olive motif creates a distinctive aesthetic in a sustainable guest house designed for family gatherings and personal retreats.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a terracotta roof that enhances thermal performance and aesthetic continuity with local architecture.
02
Features an olive motif that symbolizes peace and integrates with the surrounding landscape.
03
Utilizes concrete and wood framing to achieve structural integrity while maintaining a modern design.
04
Includes large glazed openings to optimize natural light and provide expansive views of the landscape.
05
Design includes a meditation space to promote relaxation and mindfulness for guests.

The Verde Family Guest House, situated in Portugal, exemplifies a thoughtful integration of modern architecture with local cultural influences. This project functions primarily as a hospitality space for family and friends, fostering connections while prioritizing comfort and privacy. The design strategically utilizes a variety of materials, space organization, and landscape engagement to create a harmonious environment.

Attention to materiality is reflected in the use of concrete, wood, and terracotta throughout the guest house. The concrete elements, including the foundation and walls, ensure durability while providing a stable base. The terracotta roof aligns with traditional Portuguese architecture, blending the new construction with its cultural context. Wood framing and decorative finishes create an inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall sensory experience within the home.

A unique approach taken in this project is the symbolic representation of the olive tree, which serves as both a design motif and a guiding principle for the project. This influence is visible in the structure’s form, where the robust trunk is mirrored by solid, grounded elements of the architecture, while lighter, open spaces represent the tree’s canopy. The design reflects an intention to connect occupants with nature while providing functional living space.

The spatial organization further distinguishes this guest house. The first floor features open communal areas such as the living room, dining room, and kitchen, promoting interaction among guests. The upper level contains private en-suite bedrooms, ensuring comfort and retreat. Large glazed openings in the design enhance natural lighting and connect indoor spaces to the surrounding landscape, fostering a sense of continuity with the outdoors.

Additionally, the incorporation of a tasting room and meditation space reveals an emphasis on leisure and well-being. The landscape surrounding the guest house includes native vegetation that enhances the aesthetic and ecological value of the site. This thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces not only supports environmental sustainability but also enriches the overall experience for residents and visitors.

The architectural design of the Verde Family Guest House invites further exploration of its detailed plans, sections, and conceptual approaches. For those interested in a comprehensive view of architectural ideas and the specific elements that contribute to this project’s identity, reviewing the full architectural presentation is encouraged. This will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative solutions employed within the design, highlighting what sets this project apart in contemporary architecture.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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