The main constraints we identified for this project are related to the steep topography of the terrain and its location on a corner plot. What initially appeared to be an obstacle quickly transformed into an opportunity to design a house that diverges from what is typically expected for this type of plot. This uniqueness stems not only from the aesthetic choices we made but also from how we integrated the structure with the land. We aimed to create a light appearance despite the house’s size, and we thoughtfully addressed the corner placement to enhance the urban interaction between the two adjacent roads.
Due to its location, the rear area of the plot is, in our opinion, the most significant part. It not only offers the most open space but also boasts privileged views over the Lisbon metropolis and its surroundings. We propose a volumetric design that follows the slope of the land, creating platforms that function as balconies and terraces. This design emphasizes the terraces within the landscape. The house will present a two-storey profile from the urban front, while the side elevation rises as the land descends into the hill, culminating in three floors on the back side of the house. This approach establishes a strong connection between the building and its exterior views, minimizing the need for landfills and earthworks that are often required for construction in other buildings within the area. In addition to this volumetric strategy, we aim to give the basement floor a distinct materiality that enhances its elegance while concealing its apparent size. To ensure that the three stacked volumes appear compact, we employed subtraction techniques to create balconies and terraces, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the house and the surrounding landscape.
The exterior design features a simple color palette, predominantly using white with subtle hints of grey. The choice of white conveys a sense of purity and lightness, enhancing the architectural volumes and creating a dynamic interplay of shadows. This effect is especially pronounced due to the favorable sun exposure and the contrast with the surrounding natural environment. Dark grey, chosen as a neutral and sophisticated color, is applied to the recesses of the volumes, highlighting these areas against the white surfaces. Additionally, the light grey flooring used on the main outdoor deck and balconies helps balance the stark contrast between the dark grey and white, adding visual comfort to these spaces.
In the design of the interiors, we aimed to create a layout that separates the social areas from the private ones while still allowing for visual communication between the two. This approach enhances the spatial quality of the house, particularly by taking advantage of the double-height ceiling, which helps to structure and connect the access points between floors.
It was also important to organize the spaces based on the prevailing views and sun exposure, placing the more technical and less aesthetically pleasing areas on the north side of the plot. For the interior materials, we chose the comfort and elegance of walnut wood, complemented by hints of sophistication through the use of copper in specific design elements.
Ultimately, the result is a distinctive house with a strong identity, where the interior space is designed to be as surprising as the exterior. Each floor connects directly with the views or the surrounding landscape.
The primary goal was to create a family home that is both functional and practical yet spacious enough to accommodate visitors. It is a place to live, pause, and appreciate, a house meant for contemplation of its horizon.
