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Wellness Retreat Crafted from Rammed Earth and Local Limestone

Author:
Sofia Oliva gorria
Wellness Retreat Crafted from Rammed Earth and Local Limestone

Project in-detail

Nestled in a lush Portuguese landscape, this wellness retreat artfully combines locally sourced rammed earth and limestone with a sensory-focused design, creating a space that fosters harmony between its occupants and the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The guest house features walls made from rammed earth, providing excellent thermal mass and a natural aesthetic that integrates with the landscape.
02
It incorporates a rainwater harvesting system, allowing for sustainable water management and resource efficiency.
03
The flooring consists of locally sourced limestone, enhancing the tactile experience and connecting the interior spaces to the environment.
04
Designed to prioritize sensory experiences, the architecture includes large windows that frame views of surrounding olive trees and natural features.
05
The layout promotes interaction between communal areas and secluded spaces, ensuring guests can enjoy both social engagement and personal reflection.
The Olive Guest House is a thoughtfully articulated architectural project designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and a deep connection to its natural surroundings. This project represents a commitment to eco-friendly design principles and demonstrates how architecture can harmonize with the landscape. It functions as a refuge for guests seeking tranquility and communion with nature, effectively serving both as a retreat and a place for communal experiences centered around local culture and cuisine.

At its core, the Olive Guest House is built on the idea of creating spaces that engage the senses. The architecture is carefully crafted to facilitate experiences that invite guests to see, hear, touch, taste, and smell the surrounding environment. The incorporation of natural materials, sourced locally, supports both the aesthetic and functional elements of the design, ensuring that the building not only stands out visually but also serves practical needs such as thermal comfort and energy efficiency.

The project employs a variety of well-considered design approaches. The use of rammed earth for the walls fortifies the structure with exceptional thermal mass, keeping the interiors comfortable year-round while minimally impacting the environment. This choice reflects a dedication to utilizing sustainable building techniques that respect the local geography. Complementing the rammed earth, limestone flooring provides a tactile experience that connects the indoor spaces to the natural world, further defining the character of the guest house.

The layout of the Olive Guest House is meticulously organized to facilitate movement and interaction among spaces while maintaining privacy. Public areas such as the tasting room are strategically positioned to provide breathtaking views, enhancing the sensory experience of enjoying local flavors and fostering communal interactions among guests. The meditation room, designed for serenity, prioritizes light and sound control to create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to reflection and relaxation.

Moreover, unique design elements are evident throughout the guest house. Roof slopes are not just for aesthetic appeal but designed to optimize solar exposure, allowing for the integration of solar panels that generate renewable energy on-site. The architectural plans include a water recovery system, highlighting a forward-thinking approach to resource management that captures rainwater for use within the facility.

The integration of nature extends to the landscaping surrounding the guest house, where olive trees and native plants flourish, reinforcing the overall theme of connection to the environment. The site is organized to create pathways that encourage exploration, guiding guests through both cultivated gardens and natural landscapes, blurring the lines between built spaces and the surrounding ecology.

In employing localized materials and construction methods, the Olive Guest House not only reflects the characteristics of the regional architecture but also supports the local economy by sourcing labor and materials from the area. This aspect of the project underscores a philosophy of responsibility and stewardship toward both the environment and the community.

The thoughtful arrangement of private and public spaces allows for a seamless transition through different experiences within the guest house. In addition to the tasting and meditation rooms, utility areas are planned with care to ensure they do not disturb the overall experience, highlighting the holistic approach taken in the project design. Each element of the Olive Guest House is intended to foster an atmosphere where guests can connect with each other and their surroundings.

For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs in greater detail, a review of the project presentation offers further insights into the unique architectural ideas that shaped this retreat. The design of the Olive Guest House invites inquiries into its innovative use of space, materials, and environmental considerations. Engaging with the project presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of how such architectural endeavors can fulfill the need for sustainable, sensory-rich experiences in the modern world.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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