Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Wine tasting room highlighting rammed earth construction and panoramic glass facades

Author:
Michael Guthrie
Wine tasting room highlighting rammed earth construction and panoramic glass facades

Project in-detail

Nestled within rolling vineyards, this wine tasting room artfully combines rammed earth walls and expansive glass facades to create a serene environment that enhances the connection between guests and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The building utilizes rammed earth walls for thermal mass, providing natural insulation while blending seamlessly with the landscape.
02
Custom swivel tables in the tasting area allow for dynamic seating arrangements, accommodating both intimate gatherings and larger events.
03
Expansive glass facades are strategically placed to maximize views of the vineyards and enhance natural lighting throughout the day.
04
Terraced landscaping connects the outdoor spaces with the interior, creating a fluid transition that encourages engagement with the vineyard.
05
Sustainable water management systems are integrated into the design, promoting environmental responsibility while serving the site's agricultural needs.
The Monte D'Oiro Wine Tasting Room is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in the esteemed wine-producing region of Portugal. It serves as a dedicated space for wine tasting and cultural engagement, representing a harmonious blend of modern design principles and respect for the natural landscape. This project encapsulates the core ideas of hospitality, interaction, and the celebration of wine culture, providing visitors with an enriched sensory experience.

The function of the tasting room extends beyond mere wine sampling; it acts as a venue where guests can connect both with the vineyard and the winemaking process. By fostering an environment that encourages social gatherings and intimate tastings, the design supports a wide range of activities from educational tours to private events. Its layout includes flexible spaces that can adapt to varying group sizes, effectively accommodating diverse visitor needs.

One of the standout features of the Monte D'Oiro Wine Tasting Room is its integration with the surrounding environment. Situated on a slope, the building optimally utilizes the site's topography to enhance both accessibility and views of the sprawling vineyards. This strategic positioning allows for terraced landscaping, creating a natural flow from the outdoor areas into the tasting spaces. The verticality not only emphasizes the landscape's beauty but also invites the surrounding nature into the experience, blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior.

The materiality used in the design further highlights the commitment to sustainability and local context. The choice of rammed earth for the structural walls anchors the building within its geological setting. This natural material provides thermal mass, contributing to the energy efficiency of the structure. Timber is extensively used throughout, from paneling to furniture, providing warmth and tactile richness to the finished spaces. Large expanses of glass facilitate ample natural light and offer panoramic views of the vineyard, creating a connection with the landscape while enhancing the ambiance of the tasting experience.

Attention to detail is evident in the design of various architectural elements, including the custom swivel tables that encourage flexible arrangements for different occasions. This adaptability is crucial in a space that must serve multiple functions, reinforcing the idea of hospitality at its core. The polished concrete flooring provides durability and a modern aesthetic that contrasts with the organic textures of wood and rammed earth, thus establishing a balanced visual dialogue within the interior spaces.

The sustainable practices woven into the architectural framework demonstrate a responsible approach toward energy and resource management. Features such as passive heating and cooling systems, along with carefully selected landscaping that supports local biodiversity, underscore the project's commitment to environmental stewardship. This thoughtful integration of sustainability mechanisms not only enhances the building's efficiency but also resonates with the ethos of contemporary architecture.

The design of the Monte D'Oiro Wine Tasting Room showcases unique approaches that contribute to its overall character. The careful orchestration of spaces, material choices, and architectural elements work cohesively to create an inviting and functional environment. It stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to foster connections—between people, nature, and the culture of winemaking.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural details and ideas behind this project, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative concepts will provide deeper insights into how this project exemplifies modern architecture in a sustainable and culturally relevant context. Those curious about the intricate relationship between structure and landscape are encouraged to delve into the presentation of this project, enriching their understanding of its design and implications in the realm of contemporary architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy