Nestled in the lush landscapes of Bragança Paulista, a serene gated community in the interior of São Paulo, Villa Baro stands as a testament to the poetic vision of Passarelli Arquitetos. Designed by Marcelo Passarelli, this contemporary Brazilian home blends seamlessly into its surroundings while offering moments of architectural surprise, where straight lines and sinuous curves coexist in perfect harmony.
The horizontal architecture of the house follows the natural contour lines of the plot, unfolding like a pair of wings. Passarelli recalls sketching the initial concept during a flight, inspired by the dialogue with his clients. The result is a sculptural residence where clean geometries dominate, punctuated by bold organic elements—most notably, the grand staircase that cascades lazily between floors and the circular swimming pool, clad entirely in travertine marble.
“I wanted the pool to be round, but the lower cavity was a consequence of the terrain,” explains Passarelli. “That’s when I decided to embrace the overflowing water feature, creating a small wet beach that enhances the natural flow.” The same travertine flooring extends seamlessly from the exterior to the interior, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Privacy is carefully curated through architectural features like wide eaves, pergolas, and strategic openings, ensuring the home remains intimate despite its open design. The main entrance leads through a gallery overlooking the social area on the upper floor, guiding visitors toward the private pavilion. Descending the sculptural staircase, one discovers shifting perspectives of the landscaped garden and the interplay of light and shadow across the structure.
Inside, the spacious living room with high ceilings exudes warmth, thanks to the wooden ceiling and abundant natural light. The interiors are adorned with carefully curated furniture, including pieces by Lina Bo Bardi and the Campana Brothers, alongside an art collection featuring works by Osgemeos and Daniel Senise.
“This house came when I was ready for it,” reflects Passarelli. “It was a way of saying that I had matured as an architect.” Villa Baro is more than a home—it’s a narrative in space, where every material, proportion, and detail contributes to an unfolding story of modern Brazilian architecture.
For those seeking inspiration in residential design, Villa Baro exemplifies how bold forms and natural materials can create a harmonious retreat that balances aesthetic rigor with organic fluidity.