Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of the Arrábida Natural Park, in Serra do Louro, Portugal, a new residence by Cimbre architects rises from the remnants of the past. Occupying the highest point of its plot, the house replaces a dilapidated ruin, its very stones repurposed to form the boundary walls, seamlessly integrating the new structure with the surrounding rural fabric. This act of respectful reuse sets the tone for a project deeply attuned to its environment.
The design capitalizes on the site’s inherent advantages. Oriented predominantly to the south, the house embraces the sun and commands panoramic views of the protected mountain range. This strategic placement not only maximizes natural light but also frames the stunning vista, making it an integral part of the living experience.
A key feature of the design is the interplay between enclosure and openness. The structure extends beyond the traditional four-pitched roof, with 2.4-meter-high walls that create a series of outdoor spaces, each offering varying degrees of intimacy. These extensions serve as a buffer, shielding the house from the nearby street to the north and a neighboring property to the west. This thoughtful arrangement ensures privacy while allowing natural light to pour in through generously sized glazed openings, fostering a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors.
The manipulation of space within the design creates a dynamic transition that blurs the lines between interior and exterior. This fluidity enhances the relationship with the natural surroundings, inviting the outside in and encouraging a sense of harmony with the environment. The thoughtful layout not only prioritizes privacy but also enriches the living experience by integrating the beauty of nature into daily life.
The material palette plays a crucial role in reinforcing the house’s tectonic character. Inside, the warm tones of birch wood ceilings provide a comforting contrast to the raw, imposing presence of exposed concrete walls. This interplay of materials creates a rich textural dialogue, establishing a cohesive architectural language that resonates throughout the interior spaces, making each area feel inviting and connected.
Externally, the robust combination of exposed concrete, natural zinc roofing, and durable aluminum cladding for window frames ensures that the house will age gracefully. This design choice requires minimal maintenance while blending harmoniously with the natural environment over time. The focus on longevity and low maintenance reflects the architects’ commitment to sustainable design principles, ensuring that the home remains a timeless sanctuary for years to come.
The internal layout is carefully considered to meet the specific needs of the family. The social heart of the house occupies the central space, acting as a natural meeting point and effectively dividing the private zones. This arrangement provides a sense of independence, separating the master bedroom from the other two bedrooms and offering a balanced sense of communal and private space. This thoughtful zoning enhances the functionality of the home, promoting both interaction and individual retreat.
Cimbre’s Arrábida house is more than just a dwelling; it is a sensitive insertion into a protected landscape. By respecting the site’s history, harnessing natural resources, and employing a considered material palette, the architects have created a home that is both contemporary and timeless. It stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design to harmonize with nature, offering a peaceful sanctuary within the dramatic beauty of the Serra do Louro.