Monte d'Oiro
Wine Hotel

‘The Agora’ concentrates the various programmes into a single mass set below the level of the existing buildings. It is carved into the hillside, to remain discrete and also to avoid blocking existing views from the complex to the vineyard. The project conforms to a strong grid and expands the site’s existing ‘plaza’ with sunken outdoor spaces where people can gather. The jury writes, “The views of the space were carefully designed by creating the entrance plaza and connecting the vineyard view with multiple courtyards. Chosen materials are fitting to the atmosphere of the surroundings. The building has perhaps too much presence on the vineyard-facing elevation, though the material selection helps it to blend in with the existing environment.” The submission was lauded for its strong, alluring interior and exterior images, though the jury also commented that the design of the exterior spaces could benefit from further development.  

‘A new horizontal landmark’, this project takes inspiration from the linear organization of both the site’s vineyard and its current buildings to extend the existing landscape and site views. The jury commented, “The unique approach of introducing a promenade that connects multiple functions stood out among all the proposals. It also provides a new architectural aesthetic for this region of Portugal – volumes of clean form and exposed structure. As a result of a simple approach using a repetitive elevation, the space and the materiality create a serene, welcoming atmosphere. The project’s intentions are well defined concerning the future development of the vineyard, but less so concerning its present needs to establish a statement of coherence and identity.” The jury also commented that the project could be stronger by drawing further from the complex’s existing spaces.

The project conforms to a strong linear organization set in relationship with the vineyard. It is defined by expansive concrete slabs and floor-to-ceiling glazed openings. The jury writes, “The proposal integrates the new hotel into the landscape with walls, while thoughtfully planning the views towards the surrounding nature. The design comes with a strong architectural language – though the linear walls might be too overwhelming in reality, this did not prevent the proposal from being among the strongest. Its concept relates well to the existing buildings and the vineyards, both transforming and complementing the landscape. The simplicity and beauty of the presentation illustrate the clarity of the proposal; its atmosphere of intimacy speaks of a space that would be well worth a visit.”