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Aos Poucos Se Anda Longe: A Site-Specific Approach to Olive Tourism

Author:
Vanessa maera Wijaya
Aos Poucos Se Anda Longe: A Site-Specific Approach to Olive Tourism

Project in-detail

Located in the olive-producing region of Barreira, Portugal, the project includes a tasting room and guest house designed to support rural tourism through a close connection to local agricultural practices. It brings together hospitality, heritage, and sustainability in a setting shaped by the rhythms of olive cultivation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced terracotta tiles for roofing that reflect regional architectural aesthetics.
02
Features an open floor plan without columns, maximizing flexibility in use of space.
03
Incorporates natural stone pathways that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes a communal fire pit designed to enhance guest interaction and experience.
05
Strategically oriented windows that frame panoramic valley views while optimizing natural light.

This project brings together agriculture, hospitality, and community interaction to create a space that enriches the experience of olive tourism. Developed with sensitivity to the landscape, the design balances contemporary spatial needs with traditional materials and construction techniques, fostering a quiet continuity between architecture and its setting.

Material Language and Spatial Orientation

The layout is organized to frame views of the valley and ensure fluid movement between indoor and outdoor areas. Terracotta roof tiles reference local building traditions, while exposed wooden beams contribute warmth to the interiors. Concrete forms the structural core, offering durability and contrast to the more rustic elements. Natural stone pathways and glass panels mark transitions, softening thresholds and reinforcing a connection to the surrounding terrain. An earthy palette anchors the building visually within the landscape.

Landscape Use and Cultural Intent

Outdoor areas include a fire pit, gardens, and shared gathering spaces that encourage informal interaction and immersion in the natural environment. Passive design strategies support energy efficiency through daylighting and ventilation. Rooted in the principle "Aos poucos se anda longe"—moving forward little by little—the project invites a slow, immersive engagement with the region’s olive-growing culture through understated architectural gestures and grounded spatial experience.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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