The Monte D'Oiro Tower is located in the picturesque landscape near Lisbon, Portugal. It is designed to create a meaningful connection between visitors and the surrounding vineyards. The project aims to highlight the area's natural qualities and the richness of the land. The tower serves as both a focal point and an observation point, encouraging exploration and thoughtful engagement with the agricultural heritage of the region.

Conceptual Framework

The design is informed by the local terrain and the specific characteristics of winemaking. Visitors approach the tower along a well-designed path that allows them to interact with the vineyard. This path features vertical elements that guide the way, drawing the eye toward the tower. Sunlight plays an important role, creating shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. The overall goal is to enhance the sensory experience and evoke a strong connection to the wine and the soil from which it is produced.

Structural Form

The tower's tall, slender shape contrasts with the older buildings on the site, making it a prominent landmark. It rises above the vineyards, creating a striking visual presence. A metal staircase leads visitors to the top, offering framed views that change as they ascend. This staircase does more than facilitate movement; it reinforces the relationship between the tower and the landscape, helping visitors absorb the natural surroundings.

Interior Experience

At the top of the tower, a wine tasting room offers a quiet refuge after the climb. This space features darker and more neutral tones to create a calming environment. The design of the interior focuses on enhancing the experience of tasting local wines. It allows visitors to appreciate the flavors while taking in panoramic views of the vineyards below.

Materiality

The structure incorporates metal primarily in the staircase, contrasting with the rustic elements of the existing buildings. This choice reflects a modern take on agricultural architecture. The combination of traditional and contemporary elements invites visitors to explore the landscape further. The tower design encourages an appreciation of the beauty around it and the relationship between the space and the experience of wine tasting.

The way the tower interacts with natural light throughout the day adds a unique layer to its design. Shadows dance on the structure, creating a visual dialogue with the surrounding vineyards.