An Apartment in Brazil That Honors Nostalgia and Aging Gracefully

The Moiré apartment, a duplex unit in Brasília, Brazil, has undergone a contemporary renovation by CoDa Arquitetura. This project aimed to infuse modern drama into the existing structure while preserving and enhancing its original architectural details. The name 'Moiré' is derived from the optical effect of shimmering or rippling patterns created by the superposition of similar designs, a phenomenon subtly referenced by the metal mesh railing of the central staircase in the apartment. Spanning 294 sq m, the apartment serves as the primary urban residence for a doctor, a lawyer, and their small dog. The design brief focused on maximizing existing space and fulfilling specific client requests. These included the integration of a guest kitchen with the living room for entertaining purposes, alongside a more private kitchen for daily use. Additionally, the clients desired three suites, a guest bathroom, a TV room, and an office, emphasizing the need for a highly functional and integrated living environment. CoDa Arquitetura's design retained the exposed concrete beams and pillars, introducing an element of material honesty and rawness. The overall aesthetic is modern and contemporary, with the central staircase, an original feature now updated with a new metal railing and handrail, serving as a focal point. A distinctive honeycomb ceiling, with its metal grid and surrounding concrete, provides a visual contrast to the warm, dark tones of the staircase and wood elements, adding an intriguing design detail. The architects focused on creating harmonious and functional spaces that cater to the clients' lifestyle. The two distinct kitchens exemplify this approach: a formal kitchen seamlessly integrated into the living area for guests and a more utilitarian kitchen for everyday activities. The renovation also involved strategic spatial reconfigurations, such as converting one bathroom into two and creating a new powder room, which facilitated an expansion of the living room. The material palette employed in the apartment is diverse and sophisticated, ranging from feature wood paneling in the entertainment zones to the dynamic honeycomb ceiling. The sleek metal of the staircase and the luxurious Guatemala marble used for the kitchen countertop further contribute to the apartment's refined character. Each bathroom was designed with a unique personality, including a primary suite, a green suite, and a blue suite. The second floor features balconies that connect the main bedroom to an office and a secondary bedroom. The culmination of these design choices is a residence that is both timeless and understated, offering a balanced environment for contemporary living, entertaining, and personal relaxation. #BrasiliaApartment #CoDaArquitetura #MoiréDesign #ModernArchitecture #ContemporaryInteriors #OpticalIllusion #DuplexRenovation #BrazilDesign #LuxuryApartment

Apartment NUBE in São Paulo, Brazil, is a 4,521-square-foot urban retreat designed by Nati Minas & Studio and Flipê Arquitetura, specifically tailored to the lives and extensive CD collection of its owners. Located in the tree-lined Jardim Europa neighborhood, the apartment strikes a balance between calm and drama, featuring a double-height living space and sliding glass walls that open up the interior. The design process was deeply personalized, with the architects meticulously studying the residents' daily routines to create a functional and aesthetic environment that caters to both intimate moments and large social gatherings. The apartment's layout includes expansive areas for entertaining, alongside more private spaces such as an intimate kitchen, a bar, a wine cellar, a home theater, and an office. Architect Nati Minas emphasizes the firm's philosophy of translating the client's essence into the architectural design, viewing each project as a unique portrait of its inhabitants. This client-centric approach ensures that the space is not merely trendy but deeply reflective of the homeowners' personalities and needs. A central feature of Apartment NUBE is the ingenious integration of the owner's collection of over 5,000 CDs. Instead of relegating the collection to a hidden room, the designers transformed it into an integral architectural element. Floor-to-ceiling shelves line the structural perimeter of the apartment, accessible via elevated walkways. This design choice not only showcases the collection but also draws the eye upwards, enhancing the verticality of the double-height living room and allowing natural light to permeate the space. The repeating wood-framed modules create a visual rhythm that guides visitors through the musical archives. The material palette of Apartment NUBE leans into texture, providing a tactile and grounding experience. Chunky granite slabs are strategically incorporated throughout the apartment, appearing in an entrance wall that conceals a hidden door, the sculptural staircase, kitchen work surfaces, and the bar island. These rugged surfaces offer a striking contrast to the smooth wooden finishes found on the floors and ceilings, which contribute to a sense of warmth in the social areas. Connecting the two floors is an angular staircase, wrapped in light, textured wood and featuring rustic granite treads. This staircase serves as a sculptural focal point, anchoring the open-plan living areas. While the overall palette is largely neutral, curated splashes of color are introduced through elements like lush green plants, placed on custom-carved stone bases beneath the stairs, and freestanding furniture pieces. These pops of color and distinct furniture arrangements define different zones within the open layout without disrupting the apartment’s seamless flow, resulting in an environment that is both serene and engaging. Beyond the main living area, a cozy bar adjacent to the living room includes an enclosed wine cellar, designed as a private lounge space for the couple or for entertaining close friends. This area maintains a sense of privacy while remaining conveniently close to the kitchen for easy access to snacks. The thoughtful integration of personal passions, functional design, and a harmonious material palette results in a sophisticated and deeply personal living space in São Paulo. #ApartmentDesign #SãoPauloArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CustomLivingSpace #CDCollectionIntegration #TexturalMaterials #ModernBrazilianDesign #DoubleHeightLiving #ClientCentricDesign

Jacobsen Arquitetura designed a house in São Paulo where a decked walkway extends across a shallow reflecting pool, separating the two primary wings of the residence. The property is strategically positioned on the highest part of its sloping site, a choice made to maximize views while minimizing any potential overlooking from nearby homes. The design features two parallel sections, each of the same width and length but intentionally offset from one another, defining the communal and private areas of the home. The central element of the design is a bridging structure that houses the main entrance. Access to this entrance is achieved via a wooden path that elegantly crosses the reflecting pool. This walkway continues through the glass-walled entrance hall, extending beyond to create a strong visual and physical connection with the surrounding garden and landscape. Below the main wings, on the lower portion of the site, a stone-walled volume is oriented perpendicularly to the upper structures. This lower level accommodates a large children's playroom and essential service areas, including storage, dog kennels, and living quarters for staff, contributing to the comprehensive functionality of the property. On one side of the entrance hall, a corridor leads to an open-plan living room and dining area, connecting seamlessly to a home cinema and a gym at the opposite end. A continuous concrete terrace runs along this side of the house, offering protection from the sun with its overhanging eaves and providing direct access to a swimming pool and an adjacent decked outdoor space, enhancing the outdoor living experience. The second wing, situated at the rear of the site, is dedicated to the owners' and guests' accommodation. This section is designed to receive optimal morning sunlight and features sliding glass walls that open onto a sheltered deck, further integrating indoor and outdoor spaces. Structural innovation is a key aspect of the design; the building's framework is composed of laminated timber units, a system previously developed by the architects. These wooden elements form distinct porticoes that line the corridors in both wings. On the building's exterior, these wooden beams are supported by a metal frame that also houses the windows, allowing the beams to cantilever outwards, creating a sense of openness and connection to the horizon. The interior features a dramatic linear rhythm created by rows of beams traversing the ceilings, separated by 40-centimeter gaps. These ceilings appear to extend beyond the walls, reinforcing the visual link with the expansive landscape. The internal surfaces of these beams frame changing views of the pond as one moves through the corridors, adding dynamic visual interest to the living experience. Fernando Guerra provided the photography for the project, capturing the architectural details and the integration with the natural environment. #BrazilianArchitecture #SãoPauloHouse #ModernResidentialDesign #ReflectingPool #TimberConstruction #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #LuxuryHomes

The author, Hanya Yanagihara, reflects on the concept of 'home,' noting that her transient upbringing across nine cities and 20 residences prevented her from associating the idea with a single physical space. Instead, her sense of rootedness is derived from an accumulation of specific details, rooms, furniture, and light from the various places she inhabited. This personal reflection introduces a broader exploration of diverse relationships with the notion of home, as presented in T Magazine's Design Issue. The article highlights several distinct examples of family residences, each offering a unique perspective on what constitutes a home. One featured residence is a mountain compound in Brazil, meticulously constructed by furniture designer Etel Carmona and her grown children. This compound is designed to accommodate three generations, balancing communal living with the need for individual privacy for each family member. This arrangement demonstrates a contemporary approach to multi-generational living, where shared spaces coexist with distinct personal areas. Another case study involves an English art dealer in Italy who decides to rededicate himself to Venice, a city with which he has a complex relationship. His new apartment, situated in a 17th-century palazzo, surprisingly turns out to be a place he was familiar with during his teenage years. This narrative explores the serendipitous return to a place that held previous personal significance, illustrating how history and personal memory can intertwine with one's definition of home. The story suggests that familiarity and a sense of connection can transcend the novelty of a new dwelling, transforming it into a deeply personal space. The cover story of the Design Issue focuses on the three residences created by the Swedish painter Carl Larsson and his wife, Karin, located north of Stockholm. Their first house, Lilla Hyttnäs, has been maintained by their descendants since the 1940s, with parts accessible to visitors and others remaining private. This home, more than a century after the Larssons' passing, continues to preserve their artistic legacy, furniture, and overall spirit, while also adapting to the improvisations and additions introduced by subsequent generations. This longevity and evolving nature of the Larsson home exemplify a living history, where a residence becomes a vessel for enduring family heritage and creative expression. The Larssons' original vision for their home was revolutionary for its time, rejecting the perceived monotony of bourgeois design characterized by dark furniture and neo-Renaissance styles. Instead, they championed folk art, craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and a sense of coziness. Their intention was to create an environment that felt inherently like a 'home,' rather than merely a 'house.' This distinction underscores the emotional and experiential qualities that define a true home, emphasizing comfort, personal expression, and a departure from conventional, often sterile, architectural norms. The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that a home is not just a structure but a dynamic entity shaped by personal histories, family connections, and artistic values. #HomeDesign #FamilyResidences #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #BrazilianDesign #VenetianApartment #SwedishArt #MultiGenerationalLiving

In São Paulo, a city known for its subtropical climate, the desire for ample outdoor living space is paramount. This was the driving force behind the commissioning of Casa Bento. The homeowners, a couple who also work together and have two young daughters, sought to escape the limitations of their previous traditional residence, which lacked seamless flow between its interior spaces and the surrounding garden. Their vision was a home designed for extensive entertaining of family and friends, both indoors and out. Architect Flavio Castro, founder of FCstudio, whose architectural philosophy centers on responsiveness to evolving lifestyles, was tasked with realizing this vision. The clients had acquired a lot on Rua Bento de Andrade, their childhood street in the desirable Jardim Paulista neighborhood, a verdant yet bustling area. Castro's primary challenge was to design a structure that would shield the occupants from street noise and views of neighboring properties, while simultaneously fostering an open, airy atmosphere deeply integrated with the lushly landscaped site. The resulting 4,560-square-foot, two-story residence, a 2022 Best of Year Winner for Small City House, is strategically positioned in the center of the walled lot. It features a design resembling a metal box resting on robust board-formed concrete sidewalls. The ground floor's end facades are fully glazed, creating a visual connection between the entry hall and the parking courtyard at the front, and harmoniously blending indoor and outdoor living areas at the back. In contrast, the second story is clad in folded steel lamina, a material also used for the street fence which can pivot upwards to allow car access. A narrow clerestory crowns the upper level, presenting a solid facade to passersby during the day but illuminating with a halo-like glow at night. The metal box design opens up significantly at the rear, where a continuous band of sliding glass windows extends across most of the back facade and partially along a sidewall. This glazing encloses the main bedroom, providing abundant natural light and views of the verdant garden below. These windows are equipped with large Cor-Ten steel shutters that function as a brise-soleil, effectively deflecting intense sunlight and ensuring complete privacy and quiet when closed. Cor-Ten steel, a material favored by Castro for its honesty, weather-resistant properties, and harmonious texture and color with the house's concrete, steel, and greenery, is also used for the front door. The ground level is dedicated to entertaining. Situated at the back of the house, the social zone includes a spacious living-dining area bordered by a large patio and garden on one side, and a galley kitchen on the other. The kitchen, encased in sumptuous pau ferro wood, features a wide, proscenium-like passthrough facilitating interaction during meal preparation. The dining area is defined by a custom jatoba wood table and Fernando Prado pendant fixtures, while the living area comprises a seating group with furniture by Sérgio Rodrigues and Claudia Moreira Salles. The patio, sheltered by the second-floor overhang, is furnished with a concrete dining table by Matthias Ambros von Holleben and an outdoor kitchen with teak doors. Cement pavers extend from the patio into the garden, leading to a small dipping pool, a metal firepit, and custom perforated-metal benches with integrated side tables and cachepots, all designed by FCstudio. A dramatic blackened-steel staircase, suspended from the entry hall ceiling like a Donald Judd sculpture, ascends to the second-floor family bedrooms. The open landing at the top spans the full width of the house and is deep enough to serve as a home theater. While window walls at either end of this space can be darkened with curtains and steel lamina shutters, the clerestory provides soft natural light during the day. Down a long corridor on the second floor are the daughters' bedrooms and the main suite. Each daughter's room features a platform bed with a whimsical painted-steel gable-roof frame, along with built-in storage. A floating concrete stair, echoing the sculptural quality of the main staircase, leads to a children's play area in the basement, where staff quarters, service areas, and storage are also located. Casa Bento, while named after its street, reflects the balanced functionality and aesthetic precision of a traditional Japanese bento box, with every element meticulously placed within its microcosm. #SãoPauloArchitecture #FCstudioDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHomeDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ContemporaryBrazilianHome #CustomInteriors #SustainableMaterials #FamilyHome

The AML Apartment, designed by local studio David Ito Arquitetura, is situated in São Paulo's Brooklin neighborhood, within a tower that offers extensive views of the bustling metropolis. The primary objective for the interior design was to craft a spacious area conducive to entertaining, leveraging the building's winter garden with its expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing. The design team aimed to fulfill the residents' desire for large spaces bathed in natural light and a bright atmosphere, employing delicate colors to enhance these characteristics. The project specifically sought to accentuate the apartment's abundant natural light and its generous social area. The layout integrates a lounge and a bar, strategically positioned between a glass curtain wall and sliding doors, making the most of the prime location and incorporating ample foliage. Patterned tiles are used to highlight the wall behind the high counter, with light blue tones recurring in throw cushions, creating a cohesive aesthetic. A more formal living and dining area is accessible through a retractable partition. In this central space, a unique block houses two sofas facing opposite directions: one oriented towards a fireplace, and the other overlooking a larger communal sitting and eating area. This arrangement allows for flexible social interactions and varied seating options. Throughout the apartment, the entire back wall is clad in white panels featuring vertical grooves. These panels extend to cover the doorway leading from the wood-lined elevator vestibule and cleverly conceal storage spaces. The architects emphasized that this 12-meter-long grooved panel serves as a defining backdrop for the entire social area. At the end nearest the dining table, these panels are designed to concertina open, revealing the kitchen. In the kitchen area, the wooden flooring transitions to patterned green tiles, providing a distinct visual separation and adding a pop of color. Beyond the panelling, the remainder of the 260-square-meter apartment encompasses the private quarters. This includes three smaller bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. One of these smaller bedrooms has been repurposed as a study. A larger master suite provides a more expansive private retreat. The master bedroom, characterized by its neutral decor, is accessed via a dressing room. This dressing room features a stack of blue drawers in the center and a built-in wooden vanity unit along one wall. The architects noted that the identity of the social area extends into the intimate wing, evident in the furniture choices within the closet, specifically the underwear drawer unit with its small, colorful pivot doors, drawing a whimsical comparison to a magic cube. The furniture selection throughout the residence represents a blend of mid-century and contemporary styles. Notable pieces include dining chairs by Danish modernist Hans J. Wegner and lighting fixtures by Samuel Wilkinson. White walls and timber panels serve as a consistent backdrop, allowing various colorful accent pieces to stand out and provide visual interest. The architectural team explained that the white surfaces are differentiated by their textures and reflections, which, combined with the extensive use of wood, form an ideal base for integrating the desired color palette. This apartment joins a diverse range of residential projects in São Paulo, a city known for its numerous residential towers, which include everything from compact homes with flexible layouts to vast penthouses featuring double-height walls. #ApartmentDesign #InteriorArchitecture #SaoPaulo #DavidItoArquitetura #ResidentialInteriors #ModernDesign #FlexibleSpaces #BrazilianArchitecture #HomeDecor

The "Patio House," designed by Renata Barbugli and completed in 2022, is a residential project located in Quinta das Laranjeiras, Brazil. This 514 square meter house was conceived with a strong emphasis on fostering coexistence and social gatherings, while simultaneously maintaining the privacy of its more intimate spaces. The architectural design revolves around a central patio, a common element in Brazilian residential architecture, which serves as a nexus for various activities and visual connections within the home. The project incorporates several key manufacturers and suppliers, including Indusparquet for flooring, Deca for sanitary ware, Depósito de Pedras São José for natural stones, Docol for plumbing fixtures, Durafloor for laminates, Marcenaria Móveis Figueira for custom cabinetry, Portobello for ceramic tiles, Portpedras for additional stone work, Rn Esquadrias de Aluminio for aluminum frames, and Sincol portas for doors. The lighting design was handled by Jabu Elétrica, and the landscape architecture was developed by Licuri Paisagismo, ensuring a comprehensive and cohesive design. Photographs by Favaro Jr. extensively document the house, capturing both its exterior and interior features. The images showcase the facade, garden areas, living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and various interior details, highlighting the interplay of light, materials, and spatial arrangements. Notable interior elements include a prominent wooden ceiling, extensive use of glass for natural light, and strategically placed furniture that defines functional zones within open-plan areas. The architectural approach prioritizes natural light and ventilation, achieved through large windows and glass panels that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design's success lies in its ability to create a harmonious environment for both communal activities and private retreat, adapting to the needs of a family that values both social interaction and personal space. The use of a patio is central to this concept, acting as an organizing element that facilitates flow and visual connection across different parts of the house. The house's design is characterized by modern aesthetics combined with functional considerations. The selection of materials reflects a commitment to quality and durability, while contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal. The integration of landscape design further enhances the living experience, providing green spaces and natural elements that complement the built environment. This project exemplifies how contemporary residential architecture in Brazil can successfully balance openness with privacy, creating a comfortable and inviting home for its inhabitants. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #PatioHouse #BrazilianArchitecture #ModernHome #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #QuintaDasLaranjeiras #RenataBarbugli

Sussurro House, designed by Italian architect Davide Andracco, is situated in São Miguel do Gostoso, Brazil, amidst palm trees along the Atlantic coast. Completed in 2023, this project, spanning 283 square meters on an 1100 square meter plot, integrates modern design principles with respect for the natural environment, aiming to create an elegant and comfortable living space for an Italo-Brazilian family. The house’s orientation, east-west, is deliberately chosen to maximize natural light exposure and optimize ventilation from the trade winds, a crucial aspect for tropical climates. The architectural layout of Casa Sussurro is organized into three distinct zones, each identifiable from the exterior, which define the structure's volume and aesthetic. The primary sector, serving as the central hub of the residence, features a spacious living room combined with an island kitchen. This area is specifically designed to encourage family interaction and conviviality, boasting a high ceiling of 3.6 meters to enhance comfort and spaciousness. An expansive veranda extends from this central living area, opening into a garden adorned with native flora, thereby seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice highlights a commitment to integrating the living space with its natural surroundings. The project’s specifications include the architectural firm Davide Andracco Architetto, with the lead architect being Davide Andracco himself. The total area of the house is 283 square meters. Andrew Franca is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the design. Key collaborators in the project include NS Brazil for manufacturing, Ricardo Simon for engineering, Carmelo Lombardo for metallic works, Adriano Fontes for carpentry works (Obras De Carpintaria), and Jailson Miranda for carpentry. Wando Carneiro was responsible for masonry works. These details underscore the collaborative effort and the range of expertise involved in bringing Casa Sussurro to fruition. Casa Sussurro exemplifies a thoughtful approach to residential architecture, where contemporary design meets environmental consciousness. The strategic use of orientation for light and ventilation, the integration of living spaces with nature through the veranda and garden, and the clear volumetric definition of its sectors contribute to a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional within its unique geographical context. The project reflects a careful consideration of its inhabitants' needs for comfort and elegance, while also harmonizing with the idyllic landscape of São Miguel do Gostoso. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Brazil #SãoMiguelDoGostoso #DavideAndraccoArchitetto #ContemporaryDesign #NaturalVentilation #IndoorOutdoorLiving

The article details the renovation of a 4,000-square-foot apartment in São Paulo by Pascali Semerdjian Architects for clients Renato Lulia Jacob and Emily Perry. The couple, originally from Brazil and the U.S. respectively, decided to move to São Paulo from London to raise their daughters speaking Portuguese and spend more time with family. They chose Pascali Semerdjian Architects due to existing connections and the firm's reputation. The project began with the selection of a 1990s apartment in the leafy Vila Nova Conceicao neighborhood, close to Ibarapuera Park. The couple sought a space that could be extensively renovated, and their plans were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the entire design and renovation process being managed remotely via Zoom, with the clients only returning shortly before completion. The clients had a clear vision for their new home, informed by years of renting in various international cities. Their checklist included ample wall space for an expanding art collection, generously sized but not overly grand public areas, a preference for natural materials over leather or synthetic fabrics, and a strict requirement for sustainability certifications for all wood used in the renovation. The overarching goal was to create a home that proudly embodied the spirit of São Paulo. The renovation commenced with a complete gutting of the apartment. A significant discovery was the building's original concrete formwork, previously concealed by a gypsum ceiling, which was subsequently exposed in several rooms. Structural limitations were minimal, except for a plumbing pipe ingeniously integrated into the daughters' playroom design. The layout was reconfigured to include public areas and a guest suite in the southern half, while sliding doors allowed for private access between the three family bedrooms and the kitchen. A key focus was on developing social zones that blended Brazilian cultural elements with a cosmopolitan aesthetic. The entry hall features a striking hemicycle of light through a jade-colored Pakistani onyx panel, evoking a sunset. Board-formed concrete panels extend from the entry through the public areas, creating a 'tunnel' effect and curving around the building’s corners. These panels also frame built-in sofas in the living room, replacing an old fireplace niche. The design's refinement is evident in its meticulous details and material junctions. The kitchen, for instance, showcases a complex arrangement of washed freijo wood and pale gray quartz shelves, crafted with museum-like precision. A 9-foot-long freijo table cantilevers from a monolithic concrete island, a design choice that reflects São Paulo's architectural tradition of elevating heavy concrete structures. The apartment also embraces its tropical surroundings with lush, planted terraces that encircle the property, creating an 'exuberant jungle' reminiscent of Ibarapuera Park. This integration of chaotic natural elements with structured concrete materials defines the home's identity. The residence ultimately achieves a sense of tranquility that complements the vibrant urban environment, reinforcing the allure of São Paulo that drew the family back to the city. #SustainableDesign #BrazilianArchitecture #InteriorRenovation #SãoPauloStyle #ModernLiving #ConcreteFormwork #NaturalMaterials #ResidentialDesign

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Lisbon palacete into a serene, California-inspired retreat, designed by Los Angeles-based Studio Shamshiri. The project, initiated by a West Coast family seeking a zen-like living space in Portugal, deviates from traditional European interior styling by embracing an eclectic aesthetic reminiscent of their Californian lifestyle. Pamela Shamshiri, the founder of Studio Shamshiri, aimed to create a calming escape that reflected the clients' interests and previous home in LA, despite the studio's usual approach of localizing design to its environment. The residence, featuring a delicate cobalt blue-tiled facade, is situated just off Avenida da Liberdade. The interior showcases contemporary wood detailing, a soft color palette, and abundant natural light from numerous windows and French doors overlooking the Jardim Botânico and a private backyard, designed by Spanish landscape designer Fernando Martos. Shamshiri emphasizes the client's preference for meditation and a calm life, which guided the design choices to immerse the family in beauty. The project involved collaboration with UK-based architecture firm McLean Quinlan, who completed the structural work on the 6,600 sq ft main house. Studio Shamshiri then contributed to the finishes and details of the 3,400 sq ft rooftop apartment and the overall interior styling. Shamshiri noted that the design process for this home challenged their usual rules, allowing for a more fluid and imaginative approach. The main house was designed to be ethereal, creating a sense of floating in another reality, while the rooftop apartment was conceived with the four classic elements of air, fire, water, and earth in mind. Upon entering, an Anish Kapoor sculpture, _New Red to Dark_, establishes an otherworldly tone in the foyer. The living room, bathed in a soft green light filtered by drapery, features a custom green silk rug by Studio Shamshiri and a John Williams coffee table. This space also incorporates modern elements like a marble bookcase by Renato Polidori, an Alvar Aalto chair, and a Luigi Caccia Dominioni lamp, creating a midcentury vibe. A nearby lounge space uses pink sheers to diffuse light, highlighting a lavender rug from Shamshiri’s forthcoming collection, a plush sofa from Diesel's collaboration with Moroso, and 18th-century Japanese Kano School screens. The primary bedroom is characterized by a blue sheer curtain that colors the light, creating a calm atmosphere. A pale grey plaster wall serves as both a headboard and room divider. Adjacent to this is a minimalist massage room with plastered walls and a walnut screen, aligning with the homeowner’s ethos. The home office features soap-finished Douglas fir flooring from Amsterdam, an Erik Tinstrand pendant, and a vintage Charles Eames office chair customized with an angora goatskin hide 'chair cosy,' fostering a contemplative environment. Surprisingly, the family primarily uses the top-level, three-bedroom, four-bathroom apartment, which Shamshiri describes as offering a sense of freedom and play, akin to a vacation. The living room in this pied-à-terre strongly evokes a 1960s California character with a custom upholstered sofa, a George Nakashima chair, Sergio Rodriques armchairs, a Hans-Agne Jakonsson floor lamp, and Emmanuel Boos’ 'Comme un Lego' coffee table. The open-plan design includes a dining area with a Pierre Chapo dining table and benches, and a kitchen with metal and opaline glass pendants that maintain garden views. A custom dark walnut breakfast nook, though small, is a favored gathering spot. All bedrooms in the upper level are designed with minimalism and high functionality, accommodating the unique architectural angles. A notable feature is the 'family suite' with a window bench comprising two twin beds and a shutter system designed to block light, create shade, and frame specific views. Shamshiri reflects on the personal significance of the project, highlighting her joy in reconnecting with her clients and being part of this new chapter in their lives, bridging a 6,000-mile journey from the US West Coast to the Iberian Peninsula. #LisbonHouse #StudioShamshiri #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaCool #ZenLiving #LuxuryHomes #PortugueseArchitecture #ModernInteriors #EclecticDesign #PamelaShamshiri

Maria Santos, founder of a renowned interior design studio established in 2015, presents a tour of her personal apartment in Madrid. Known for a timeless design approach that honors classical architecture while integrating modern elements, Santos emphasizes the use of natural materials to craft bright, functional, and relaxed spaces. Her Madrid residence serves as a prime example of her signature style, characterized by a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics. The apartment, originally an old and dimly lit property with numerous small rooms, underwent a complete renovation. Santos describes the process as challenging, particularly the decision-making for her own home, which she found more difficult than designing for clients. The extensive renovation involved new installations throughout and a significant re-arrangement of rooms; for instance, a former bedroom now functions as the kitchen, and the previous kitchen has been transformed into a bedroom. The completed apartment now boasts four bedrooms, two living rooms, a dining room, a kitchen, and a dressing room. A central challenge during the renovation stemmed from the property's age and poor condition of some walls. The kitchen, in particular, presented difficulties as it was initially a small, dark bedroom lacking any existing fittings. This transformation highlights the designer's ability to reimagine and restructure a space entirely. The chosen color palette reflects Santos's classic-modern style, with a predominantly white base punctuated by green accents to ensure continuity across the rooms. Texture is introduced through natural materials such as wood and stone, while textiles, furnishings, and accessories add splashes of color. The furnishings represent a mix of pieces from her previous home, new antique acquisitions, and custom-made items. Santos's forthcoming antique shop, Bingutti, is the source for many of the antique furnishings. She intentionally contrasts furniture from different eras, incorporating original Saarinen tulip chairs, Joe Colombo chairs, and a large antique French dining table. Key areas of the apartment are meticulously detailed. The entrance hall features an antique French table adorned with Chinese blue porcelain vases and a painting by Hugo Alonso, designed to ground the transient space. The kitchen, a favorite room, seamlessly connects to the dining area. Notable discoveries during renovation include two columns near the kitchen island, which were integrated into the design. The living room showcases a custom white linen sofa, an Italian antique marble coffee table, a painting by Zobel, and an antique French table, complemented by Joe Colombo's bold green chairs and a zebra carpet. In the dining room, personal paintings from Santos's architecture studies adorn the wall, alongside a French antique crystal chandelier and wall lights, contrasting with the Saarinen tulip chairs. The main bedroom is furnished with a gold metal chair and a French antique chandelier, creating a glamorous boudoir feel, balanced by Daphine table lamps by Lumina and a painting by Eduardo Lalanne. The children's bedroom features a distinctive wooden bed, adding grandeur and warmth. The photography for the feature was done by Montse Garriga. #MadridApartment #InteriorDesign #MariaSantos #HomeRenovation #ClassicModernStyle #AntiqueFurniture #NaturalMaterials #EuropeanDesign

The Bateia Bungalow Bathroom, designed by Studio 126 Arquitetura and completed in 2021, is located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This project encompasses an area of 137 square meters and aims to merge contemporary living concepts with the rich cultural heritage of Minas Gerais, drawing inspiration from the region's mining history, specifically referencing the motto “A Casa Original.” The architectural design emphasizes a connection with nature, achieved through extensive use of natural materials like wood and stone, and strategic placement of large windows that frame views of the surrounding forest and garden. The project showcases a deliberate integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The bathroom area, which serves as a central focus of the bungalow, is designed to be a serene retreat. Large glass panels and thoughtful landscaping create a seamless transition, allowing occupants to experience the natural environment while maintaining privacy. The interior aesthetic combines rustic elements with modern finishes, featuring exposed brick, wooden beams, and polished concrete surfaces. This material palette not only pays homage to local building traditions but also contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Key design decisions include the arrangement of the bungalow to maximize natural light and ventilation. The layout supports a fluid circulation, enhancing the sense of spaciousness within the compact footprint. The architects utilized various types of wood for structural components and finishes, alongside locally sourced stone, to ensure durability and a harmonious blend with the natural surroundings. The project’s exterior is characterized by its clean lines and minimalist approach, allowing the natural landscape to take precedence. The garden design incorporates native flora, further blurring the boundaries between the built structure and its environment. Photographs by Estudio NY18 and Daniel Mansur highlight the project's attention to detail and its successful execution of the design vision. The imagery captures the interplay of light and shadow, the texture of the materials, and the expansive views from within the bungalow. The project's classification as a 'Bath House' suggests its primary function as a private sanctuary focused on wellness and relaxation, where the design elements are carefully chosen to promote a tranquil user experience. The use of natural materials and the emphasis on light and views contribute to an overall sense of calm and connection to nature. The Bateia Bungalow Bathroom stands as an example of how modern architectural principles can be applied to reinterpret regional cultural narratives. It reflects a design philosophy that values sustainability, contextual responsiveness, and the creation of sensory-rich environments. The project is an initiative to explore modern housing solutions that respect and reflect the unique identity of Minas Gerais, aligning with contemporary trends in architectural design that prioritize well-being and integration with nature. The subtle references to the mining era are woven into the material choices and the overall ambiance, offering a unique interpretation of the region's history. #BathHouse #BrazilianArchitecture #NaturalMaterials #BeloHorizonte #Studio126Arquitetura #ContemporaryLiving #CulturalRoots #MinasGerais

In a recent Brazilian Design Week event in Washington, diplomat Sérgio Amaral highlighted the growing global recognition of Brazilian design, nearly a century after its inception. This movement, now taking its place in the Modernist pantheon, is characterized by an elusive quality known as _Brasilidade_, or Brazilianness. Unlike its Scandinavian or Bauhaus counterparts, Brazilian modernism is defined by "unpretentious sophistication," curves, soothing corners, comfort, and a sensual freedom, as described by those immersed in the field. This unique aesthetic is being brought to North America by distributors like Sossego, founded by Jonathan Durling after he encountered designer Aristeu Pires. Similarly, R & Company co-founders Zesty Meyers and Evan Snyderman have been instrumental in revitalizing the legacies of mid-century Brazilian masters such as Lina Bo Bardi and Joaquim Tenreiro, showcasing their work in New York. There is a clear and growing global appetite for this distinct style. The event also featured an exhibition at the chancery, a 1971 black-glass cube designed by Brazilian architect Olavo Redig de Campos, displaying iconic pieces by Oscar Niemeyer, José Zanine Caldas, Sérgio Rodrigues, Bo Bardi, and Tenreiro, alongside contemporary works from Domingos Tótora, Guilherme Wentz, and Pires. Zesty Meyers recounted his two-decade quest, sparked by Oscar Niemeyer's architecture in Brasília, to uncover the hidden world of Brazilian furniture design. His search began in the late 1990s when he realized that such monumental architecture must have been complemented by equally remarkable local design. With minimal archival resources and no internet, Meyers and Snyderman embarked on detective work, initially finding only small photos in design yearbooks. Their persistence led them to Brazil, where they discovered a vibrant, largely unknown artisan-design scene, characterized by rich woods, intricate carving skills, and a profound sense of beauty. Many custom pieces, they found, remain in private collections, making the discovery process all the more challenging and rewarding. Paradoxically, Brazil's political isolation and delayed industrialization, despite early exposure to European avant-garde and internationalism, fostered a uniquely artisanal and sensual style, free from dogmatic constraints. This environment allowed designers to create without adherence to rigid rules, enabling an aesthetic deeply rooted in nature. Sculptor Domingos Tótora, for instance, integrates the sinuosity and textures of Brazil's mountains into his work, exemplified by his home in Maria de Fe. Facing the endangerment of noble hardwoods like Brazilian rosewood and Pernambuco wood, Tótora has adopted sustainable practices. He crafts pieces like vases, trays, benches, and coffee table bases from recycled cardboard, which he processes with soil, water, and paste, molding and baking the material in natural sunlight, then hand-sculpting and burnishing it to achieve a smooth, silky finish. This resourcefulness embodies _jeitinho_, a Brazilian colloquialism for finding a creative workaround, which, along with _Brasilidade_, remains central to the past, present, and future of Brazilian modernism. #BrazilianDesign #ModernFurniture #InteriorDesign #Brasilidade #ArtisanDesign #SustainableDesign #CulturalAesthetics #MidCenturyModern #DesignHistory

Architects Clara Reynaldo of CR2Arquitetura and Lourenco Gimenes of FGMF designed their own family home on a challenging 4x30m narrow plot in São Paulo. The primary challenge was to integrate the entire house program within the limited space while ensuring sufficient natural light and ventilation. Their solution involved extensive research, drawing inspiration from compact Japanese and Dutch home designs. The final design, which took three years to complete, strategically incorporates a central garden. This garden is cut into the constructed volume, creating three façades that are generously bathed in natural light. This approach was crucial for maximizing illumination and ventilation within the narrow confines of the plot. The house is structured into two main blocks, positioned on either side of this central courtyard. These blocks are interconnected by a corridor on the ground floor and a mesh footbridge on the first floor. The larger, front-facing block houses the primary living areas, including the kitchen, sitting room, and bedrooms on the upper level. The smaller, rear block supports the front structure and contains service areas, circulation paths, an office, and a TV room. An unconventional design decision was to place the kitchen facing the street, allowing the living room to be oriented towards the private central garden. This choice transformed a potential obstacle into a design opportunity, emphasizing the kitchen's form and integrating it spatially into the home. To further enhance the spatial integration and perception of openness, the architects innovatively sunk the kitchen by 75cm into the ground. This created an elevated corridor that runs alongside it and leads directly into the living room. The interior and exterior of the house maintain a monochromatic palette with clean, white, light-reflecting surfaces. This choice, combined with large openings facing the courtyard, contributes to the illusion of a more expansive space than its actual dimensions suggest. The project also prioritized the use of recyclable materials. The overall result is a bright and airy home that efficiently utilizes every part of the narrow plot. This design demonstrates how thoughtful architectural solutions can overcome significant site constraints to create a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable living environment, effectively making the small space feel larger and more connected to nature through strategic use of light and spatial relationships. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #SãoPaulo #UrbanHousing #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #NarrowPlotHouse #ArchitecturalInnovation

The Pérgola House, designed by Sidney Quintela Architecture + Urban Planning, is located in Praia do Forte, an old fishing village in Brazil known for its rustic charm and contemporary feel. Completed in 2021, this residential project spans an area of 750 square meters. The design addresses the client's desire for ample space to host friends and family, making large balconies a prominent feature. The architectural style blends contemporary aesthetics with tropical influences, emphasizing open spaces and a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. A core design principle was to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the house. This approach not only enhances the comfort of the inhabitants but also contributes to energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. The integration of the living spaces with the surrounding environment is a key aspect of tropical architecture, a style that prioritizes harmony with nature and climatic responsiveness. The project's location in Praia do Forte further dictates this emphasis, requiring designs that are adapted to the local climate, which typically involves warm temperatures and abundant sunlight. The project involved a dedicated team, with Sidney Quintela as the Architect In Charge. The team included Christianne Midlej, Lais Barreto, Sinval Neto, Thiara Maciel, and Jouse Sena. Their collaborative efforts focused on bringing the client's vision to life while adhering to the principles of sustainable and contextual design. The use of specific manufacturers such as Arqluz, Bizâncio, Bontempo, Básica Home, Home Design Casual, Oca Brasil, Portobello, and Tidelli suggests a commitment to quality materials and furnishings that complement the contemporary and tropical aesthetic of the house. Key materials used in the construction and finishing of Pérgola House include wood, which is often favored in tropical architecture for its natural beauty, durability, and ability to blend with the environment. The choice of wood also aligns with sustainable building practices when sourced responsibly. The house features elements like beams, decks, and pergolas, which are integral to its design and functionality, providing shade and defining outdoor living areas. The photographs by Manuel Sá capture various aspects of the house, including its exterior, facade, garden, courtyard, and interior spaces, highlighting the interplay of light, shadow, and materiality. The interior design includes spaces like a living room, dining area, and bedrooms, all designed to be open and inviting. Features such as large windows and open layouts promote cross-ventilation and allow natural light to penetrate deep into the living areas. The presence of stairs, sofas, tables, and specific lighting fixtures indicates a thoughtful approach to creating comfortable and functional spaces for both intimate family life and larger social gatherings. The emphasis on indoor-outdoor living is evident through design choices that blur the lines between these zones, creating a cohesive and expansive living experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #TropicalArchitecture #SustainableDesign #PraiaDoForte #Brazil #SidneyQuintela #ContemporaryDesign #NaturalLighting #Ventilation #WoodConstruction

Butterfly Studio, led by architects Anna Baranowska and Joanna Felczuk, redesigned an 84-square-meter apartment in Kraków, Poland, for a young couple who wanted a home that reflected their appreciation for vibrant colors and retro aesthetics while maintaining practicality. The renovation involved a significant layout change, where one room was eliminated to create a larger, more open living area. This alteration allowed for a spacious L-shaped sofa and an extendable dining table, catering to the couple's social lifestyle and need for flexible space. The kitchen was also reconfigured to function as a central gathering point, featuring a custom island with integrated storage, departing from traditional bar seating. The apartment's design prominently incorporates a diverse color palette, with shades of green, rust, blue, and burgundy used across various surfaces. These colors are complemented by a mix of textures and graphic elements, such as a checkered rug and patterned entry tiles, which add visual interest and depth to the interior. Lighting fixtures are not merely functional but also contribute sculpturally to the design, with pendant lamps illuminating the sofa area and artistic fixtures adorning the hallway. The entryway establishes the apartment's distinctive style, featuring a burgundy built-in wardrobe and a curved bench that serves both as a decorative element and practical seating. Geometric patterns are a recurring motif throughout the space, evident in the softly curved kitchen island and the rounded media cabinet, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across different rooms. One of the initial challenges of the apartment was a long, awkward hallway, which Butterfly Studio transformed into a striking design feature. The hallway now boasts playful wall sconces that cast abstract reflections, intricate millwork in muted tones that add texture, and a dark anthracite accent wall that provides contrast, giving the corridor its own unique character and dynamism. In the bedroom, a calming atmosphere is achieved through green walls and a terracotta-colored ceiling, creating a warm and inviting sanctuary. A custom-designed headboard incorporates a built-in vanity on one side, maximizing functionality within the space. The apartment includes two bathrooms, each with its own distinct personality. One bathroom features earthy tones with terracotta tiles and concrete-like plaster, while the other makes a bolder statement with burgundy floors, denim-toned cabinetry, and cool blue tiles. Both bathrooms integrate clever storage solutions, such as a woven-front laundry unit, to maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance. The overall design successfully blends vibrant retro elements with modern functionality, creating a unique and livable space. #InteriorDesign #RetroDesign #KrakowApartment #ButterflyStudio #ColorfulInteriors #FunctionalDesign #ModernLiving #HomeDecor