bica arquitectos tops residence with long white volume in western portugal

situated on a plot overlooking the sintra mountain range of western portugal, the ‘casa belas clube de campo’ by bica arquitectos is characterized by a long white volume floating above its ground floor. the residence comprises two levels and a basement, entirely covered with limestone sourced from the excavation and reused on the construction of the walls to create a massive base. upon this firm base, the ground floor sits almost entirely glazed, creating a visual and functional continuity of common areas with outdoor spaces, such as the terrace, swimming pool and lounge with an open fire.all images by FG + SG fotografia de arquitectura

bica arquitectos has built the house with its main façade facing south, parallel to the road, the façade with the main entrance facing west and towards the sea, and the façade facing north more enclosed, complete with a protected garden and lawn area. the transparency of the ground floor is contrasted by the white volume of the upper floor, which forms a large terrace inside and encloses private spaces such as bedrooms to protect them from the surroundings.

project info:

name: casa belas clube de campo 

architect: inês cortesão / bica arquitectos

co-author: celia faria (2015-2017)

collaboration: marco dos santos, liliana nobrega, pedro tomé

constructor: santos & damião, lda.

area of intervention: 1100 sqm

location: belas clube de campo – sintra, portugal