casa joão de barro by terra e tuma emerges from a sloping site in itatiba, brazil

brazilian studio terra e tuma has built casa joão de barro on a sloping site within the mountainous landscape of itatiba, são paulo. designed for a young couple whose wish was to be close to nature and enjoy their free time with their children and friends, the residence is in direct connection to the surroundings through large openings on its walls, several terraces and gardens, and a large open air patio at its core.

all images by pedro kok

terra e tuma has implemented a light and intelligent construction process that required no soil movement, resulting in a residence that blends harmoniously within the surrounding environment instead of forcing its presence. the central courtyard allows more natural light to enter the interior, while its direct connection to all social/living areas of the house expands their proportions. the patio is finished with a pool that adapts according to different seasons, transforming from a ‘small beach’ that overflows on summer days to a mirror extending and reflecting the terrace during winter. while the living room and kitchen capture views of the surrounding nature through large openings, bedrooms have been strategically positioned towards the back of the house to get morning sunlight and ensure enough privacy.

project info:

architect: terra e tuma arquitetos associados

team: danilo terra, pedro tuma, fernanda sakano, juliana terra e bárbara fernandes

landscape: gabriella ornaghi arquitetura da paisagem

location: itatiba, são paulo, brazil