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Terracotta Roofs and Local Stone Blend in a Sustainable Olive Oil Community Hub

Author:
Ana eliza Motta
Terracotta Roofs and Local Stone Blend in a Sustainable Olive Oil Community Hub

Project in-detail

Combining terracotta roofs and local stone with a focus on sustainable practices, this residence serves as a vibrant community hub for olive oil tasting and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a green roof that enhances biodiversity and aids in rainwater management.
02
An olive oil tasting bar is integrated into the main social area, fostering community engagement.
03
Terracotta roofing materials are selected not only for aesthetics but also for rainwater collection efficiency.
04
The layout adapts to the terrain's slope, maximizing views of the surrounding olive grove.
05
Local stone is utilized on the exterior to create a seamless connection with the natural landscape.
The Olive House project is an exemplary architectural endeavor located in the Algarve region of Portugal. This residence not only provides a home but also serves a broader purpose as a center for social interaction and cultural education surrounding the local olive oil production. The design reflects a deep respect for traditional practices while integrating modern architectural principles, effectively creating a dialogue between past and present.

At its core, the Olive House represents a modern interpretation of rural Portuguese architecture, emphasizing sustainability and community. The project seamlessly combines living spaces with educational areas dedicated to olive oil tasting, fostering a connection between residents, guests, and the land. This dual function is particularly significant, as it allows the house to engage with both local traditions and contemporary lifestyles.

The architectural design includes a single-story structure characterized by a gently sloping roof covered with terracotta tiles, resonating with the region's vernacular style. This practical choice enhances the home’s aesthetic and functional properties, enabling effective rainwater collection and permitting efficient energy management. Surrounding the dwelling, olive trees provide not only a backdrop of natural beauty but also serve as a living testament to the cultivation practices that are integral to the area.

Inside, the Olive House is arranged in an open-plan layout that emphasizes flexibility and interconnectedness. The main social area features a spacious dining table designed for communal gatherings, encouraging interaction among visitors and inhabitants. This space is anchored by a biothermal fireplace, providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere, essential for the chilly evenings characteristic of the region. One of the standout features of the interior is the olive oil tasting bar, which occupies a central location, positioning it as a focal point for community engagement and education.

The unique design approaches taken in this project are evident in the careful selection of materials. The use of local stone on the exterior not only integrates the house into its environment but also respects the natural resource availability of the region. The incorporation of oak wood for furniture and fixtures brings an element of warmth to the interiors, while expanding the connection to nature. Large glass windows throughout the home invite ample natural light, promoting a sense of openness and enhancing the views of the surrounding olive grove.

Sustainability is a critical theme woven throughout the Olive House project. The inclusion of a green roof, populated with native plants, serves multiple purposes: it aids in regulating temperature, enhances biodiversity, and manages rainwater runoff. This feature embodies a contemporary understanding of architecture’s role in environmental stewardship, presenting the house as a model for future projects in similar contexts.

Ultimately, the Olive House stands as a harmonious balance of functionality and design, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of olive oil production in Portugal. It invites individuals to experience the local traditions while offering a modern lifestyle that engages with the surrounding landscape. There is much to explore within this project, from its architectural plans to its architectural sections and design ideas, which provide deeper insights into the creative process behind this thoughtful initiative. Readers are encouraged to delve into the presentation of the Olive House to uncover the full extent of its architectural narrative and the unique vision that brought it to life.
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The Architect’s 
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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