A. Montesinho Turismo: Bragança, Portugal
Architecture in Dialogue with Nature
In the heart of the Montesinho Natural Park, the Montesinho Eco-Resort was born—a collection of four houses designed for rural tourism, in close harmony with the surrounding landscape and regional traditions. The concept was based on a simple premise: to build with and for nature.
In the heart of the Montesinho Natural Park, the Montesinho Eco-Resort was born—a collection of four houses designed for rural tourism, in close harmony with the surrounding landscape and regional traditions. The concept was based on a simple premise: to build with nature and for nature.
The project was designed by architect Ana Soares, from the studio Cor de Tijolo – Architecture and Interiors, who signed off on an intervention where sustainability and respect for local identity go hand in hand.
Each house—Casa do Castanheiro (Chestnut Tree House), Casa da Cerejeira (Cherry Tree House), Casa da Oliveira (Olive Tree House), and Casa da Amendoeira (Almond Tree House)—is named after a native tree planted at its entrance. These trees not only inspired the names but also influenced each home's interior color palette: chestnut yellow, cherry red, olive green, and almond beige define the visual identity of each unit.
Amorim MD Facade Cork Cladding
On the exterior, Amorim MD Facade cork cladding was used as a visible cork panel system, contributing to a contemporary look while remaining deeply rooted in the region. The use of expanded cork panels reflects the identity of Trás-os-Montes, a region known for its strong ties to nature, local craftsmanship, and respect for native resources. The visible cork enhances the building’s sustainability and blends with the rustic surroundings, creating a subtle harmony between innovation and tradition.
According to Alexandrina Fernandes, CEO of A. Montesinho Turismo, the choice of cork as an exterior cladding material was a natural one. “As a Portuguese, sustainable material with excellent thermal and acoustic performance, it made perfect sense for a project that aims to integrate with the Natural Park without harming it,” she says.
In addition to the cork facades, natural and local materials were used, including regional wood crafted by local carpenters, contributing to low environmental impact. The homes’ floating floors also include a cork underlay, which improves insulation and interior comfort in an eco-friendly way.
The project also emphasizes passive energy efficiency strategies, such as solar orientation, natural ventilation, and minimally invasive foundations. With a design focused on detail, A. Montesinho Turismo is a heartfelt tribute to nature, sustainable architecture, and mindful, eco-conscious tourism.
Why Use Expanded Cork on the Facade
- Enhanced Thermal Insulation: Cork has low thermal conductivity and excellent acoustic insulation, making it ideal for building insulation. Amorim MD Facade cork panels offer high resistance to both heat and cold, ensuring interior comfort.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Expanded cork used as a façade cladding material provides a dual benefit: it acts as a high-performance technical solution and simultaneously enhances the building's visual appeal. Projects like Casa da Levada demonstrate how cork not only serves a practical purpose but also contributes to architectural identity.
- Sustainability: Cork is a 100% natural, sustainable, renewable, and recyclable material that aligns with modern demands for eco-conscious construction and responsible design. The result is an energy-efficient building, requiring minimal maintenance, and seamlessly integrated into the rural setting.