The desire to create a space where families can truly connect across generations has inspired the design of the House in Muda in Grândola, Portugal. Architects Vasco Lima Mayer and Gonçalo Grácio have envisioned a 430sqm family retreat that fosters both togetherness and individual privacy. This project, currently under development, draws inspiration from traditional Portuguese architecture while embracing modern design principles to create a welcoming and functional environment for grandparents, parents, and grandchildren.
The house’s design hinges on a clear and compelling concept: to provide a spacious and welcoming environment for grandparents, parents, and grandchildren to gather. This is achieved through a clever division into three distinct blocks. The main block is dedicated to the grandparents, offering a comfortable bedroom and living room. Two similar blocks, each featuring two bedrooms, provide private spaces for the children and grandchildren. This thoughtful layout allows for both communal living and individual retreat, striking a delicate balance between shared experiences and personal space.
At the heart of the House in Muda lies the expansive living room. Here, transparency is paramount. Generous glazing dissolves the boundary between indoors and out, creating a fluid connection with the stunning natural surroundings. The picturesque Muda Reserve, with its characteristic rice fields, fragrant pine forests, and rolling dunes, becomes an integral part of the living experience. Natural light floods the space, enhancing the sense of openness and tranquility.
The project, beautifully rendered by Filipe Borralho, is a masterclass in balancing form and function. The horizontal design, a nod to traditional Portuguese architecture, is punctuated by a striking chimney, adding a vertical element that breaks the horizontality and creates a focal point. This interplay of horizontal and vertical lines lends the house a sense of both groundedness and dynamism. The design exudes a quiet modernity while remaining deeply rooted in its context.
As Vasco Lima Mayer explains, “Muda’s House is a family holiday home designed to be a meeting place for grandparents, parents and grandchildren. The idea was to create a spacious and pleasant environment to experience unforgettable family moments.” This vision is clearly reflected in every aspect of the design, from the thoughtful distribution of spaces to the emphasis on natural light and connection with the landscape.
The House in Muda is more than just a holiday home; it is a carefully crafted environment designed to nurture family bonds across generations. By embracing both tradition and innovation, Vasco Lima Mayer and Gonçalo Grácio have created a truly remarkable project that promises to become a cherished family sanctuary for years to come. The renderings offer a tantalizing glimpse into what will undoubtedly be a significant addition to the architectural landscape of the Comporta region.