The proposal for the extension of a 70 m² single-family house located in Polima – Cascais consists of the creation of a second floor, with particular emphasis on the northern extension of the volume by 11.50 m² to accommodate the staircase.

The solution proposes an orthogonal volumetric composition, with simple lines and a contemporary language, composed of two volumes — the existing one and the new extension. The upper volume features a cantilever towards the north/east, integrating the access staircase and adding a sense of dynamism to the extension.

The project emphasizes the relationship between interior and exterior through south/west-facing balconies and the use of the flat roof of the ground floor, avoiding the need for demolition of the original building. The northern cantilever provides shelter for the main entrance, ensuring coherence with neighboring constructions.

The upper floor, with a double-pitched white lacquered zinc roof, draws inspiration from the Forte de Santa Marta / Santa Maria Lighthouse and Museum, reinterpreting their white volumes and horizontal proportions. The architecture embraces a minimalist and functional aesthetic, where form follows function and the interior layout informs the exterior volumetric definition.

The existing ground floor will be clad in Azulino Cascais stone, with enlarged openings and glazed surfaces to enhance natural light and visual continuity between inside and outside. Internally, this floor will include new living and dining areas, with a kitchen ventilated by a charcoal filter extractor (without a chimney).

The new second floor will comprise three bedrooms — one of them a suite with a walk-in closet — and an additional bathroom.

The existing structure will be reinforced with HEB steel columns and beams, maintaining most of the original partitions except for minor non-structural wall demolitions. A new accessible bathroom will also be created for people with reduced mobility.

The house fully complies with accessibility regulations, allowing access to the interior and terrace through the main hall.

LOCATION

Polima, Cascais

YEAR:

In development

ARCHITECTURE:

Nuno Ladeiro / Carmo Branco

COLLABORATORS:

Barbara Raimundo / Marta Carvalho / Dominika Wodeńko