Portugal Olive Guest House
An Immersive Experience.
Portugal
Three talented teams submitted compelling and thoughtfully crafted entries for the Portugal Olive Guest House competition. Each design beautifully captured the spirit of the site, offering immersive spatial experiences and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape. Together, they showcased a remarkable blend of creativity, contextual sensitivity, and architectural vision.
Team 1 – Submittal Package
ELDER HOUSE – The project emphasizes the concept of what is old (representing Portugal’s varied past through heavy, of-the-earth stone) providing a foundation for what is new (representing modern day Portugal through clean, white stucco). And while the past provides a solid foundation for the new, there is interplay between the two. The old pushes up into modern day, just as the new affects our memories of the past. In this way the architecture reflects the dynamic relationship within the olive oil “industry”, if such a word could be used for this family-owned business. Modern techniques (collection / pressing / bottling) are built upon those techniques employed for hundreds of years, while also allowing room for new thoughts and new means of production.
Team 2 – Submittal Package
THE ABERTURA TASTING HOUSE – Welcome to The Abertura Tasting House: An immersive experience that evokes all five senses and focuses on what is really important – time spent with others. Look: At the rolling hills of the countryside framed so perfectly by the tasting room walls, as you enjoy a glass of wine with friends. Listen: To the wind rustling through branches of the olive trees as you make your way through the plaza towards a breathtaking sunset. Feel: The warmth of the fire on your skin as you sit around the communal fireplace, trading stories. Smell: The fresh air as a gentle breeze drifts in through the open door of your private guest suite. Taste: The rich flavors of the Verde family olive oil as you sit with loved ones and reflect on what it means to have this time together. Truly let your senses take over in this setting designed to pull you in and engage.
Team 3 – Submittal Package
BRUCATURA – The traditional method to make olive oil is a delicate friendship between the hands that harvest and the legacy of the land. A tradition that hinges on careful selection, intensive labor, and respect for the landscape. From conception to completion, it is an experience to be celebrated – this is Brucatura. The Serra d’Aire e Candeeiros region sets the backdrop of Brucatura, stippled with olive trees and a sweeping view across the valley. Each courtyard is adorned with a single olive tree, framed like a picturesque painting at the heart of the communal spaces. The guest experience mimics the language of the olive branch. Circulation naturally terraces down the rural site, branching off in private paths along a strong vein of circulation – experienced in both plan and section. Clusters of courtyards between the elongated forms are like olives protected by their leaves – creating shaded areas of rest and reflection.
