The Vila Utopia project in Carnaxide was centred around a series of aesthetic design principles, which were analysed in order to support the development of the presented study. For the ground floor, an entrance hall area was designed for the house, and from an aesthetic perspective, this area was visually reinforced from the outside by enhancing the expressiveness of the façade. This was achieved through the introduction of a perforated metal sheet in Corten steel, which seamlessly continues into the entrance door.

Inside, the specific aspects of functionality led to an organisation of the space with a particular focus on the placement of decorative elements (furniture and lighting). This entrance area, from a functional standpoint, provides distribution to the various rooms in the house and serves as a “magical” space due to the play of light and the refined atmosphere of the corridor that connects the living room, kitchen, lift, guest WC, and laundry room.

Within the living room, two distinct zones were created: one more intimate, centred around the fireplace and designed for contemplation of the exterior landscape, and the other functioning as a dining area.

The staircase leading to the upper floor was also emphasised through the contemporary design of an outdoor water feature, visible through the large glazed façade, encouraging the upward journey.

On the upper floor, the master suite stands out with its modern aesthetic and distinctive details, notably the Emperador stone behind the bed’s headboard, which appeals to the senses through the effect of retractable light emerging from small slits in the stone.

The “suspended” corridor leading to the guest bedrooms, as well as to the son’s and daughter’s rooms, evokes the concept of a promenade architecturale, with a large window opening and a balcony allowing natural light to filter into the entrance hall and the corridor on the lower floor.

LOCATION

Carnaxide, Oeiras

YEAR:

Under development

ARCHITECTURE:

Nuno Ladeiro / Carmo Branco

COLLABORATORS

Barbara Raimundo / Daniela Alves