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Weathering Steel Planters and Light Concrete Walls in Vineyard Hospitality

Author:
Juan pablo Rivas
Weathering Steel Planters and Light Concrete Walls in Vineyard Hospitality

Project in-detail

With weathering steel planters and light concrete walls, the design integrates seamlessly into the vineyard landscape to create a hospitality experience that emphasizes connection to the surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique weathering steel planters enhance the building’s connection to the vineyard environment.
02
Light concrete walls provide durability while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
03
The layout promotes micro-urbanism, allowing for diverse visitor experiences.
04
Multiple accommodation options cater to varying guest needs across different levels.
05
Interconnected pathways encourage exploration and interaction within the site.

The architectural design *essência* at Quinta do Monte d'Oiro is located in the wine-producing region of Alenquer, Portugal. The project's aim is to create a strong relationship between the buildings and their natural surroundings. It takes inspiration from the area's traditions in winemaking, focusing on integration to foster a deeper connection with the vineyard landscape and its Mediterranean climate.

Architecture and Spatial Configuration

A micro-urban approach characterizes the design, dividing the spaces into independent building blocks. This arrangement encourages movement and interaction among visitors. The focus is on walkability, making it easy for guests to explore the grounds. Interconnected paths lead to various amenities, enhancing accessibility while responding to the site's natural topography.

Program and Functionality

The design includes essential hospitality features. These consist of a reception area, a variety of accommodation options, dining spaces, event areas, outdoor recreation zones, and a spa. The choice of room types, including single and double options on different levels, caters to diverse visitor needs. This thoughtful flexibility allows guests to have varied experiences while connecting with the environment.

Materiality and Aesthetic

In terms of materials, light concrete is used for exterior walls, creating a sturdy yet unobtrusive presence within the landscape. Inside, light gray porcelain flooring enhances the spa area’s functionality. Terrazzo is featured in the hotel floors, lending a modern touch. The use of honey wood for doors adds warmth, while weathering steel is used in planters and louvers, promoting sustainability and matching the outdoor character.

Design Detail

The overall look of *essência* is fresh and simple, paying respect to local architectural styles. The building is designed to blend with its surroundings, allowing it to sit naturally within the landscape. Each design element works together, creating a calm environment that invites guests to engage with both the architecture and the vineyard.

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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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