concrete platforms & wooden paths articulate residential extension by pereira miguel in portugal

pereira miguel arquitectos unveils mja house in portugal

in comporta, portugal, pereira miguel arquitectos (PM-ARQ) built MJA house as an extension to the pre-existing residence on site. composed of four distinctive volumes perpendicular to the main house, the project is defined by rectangular concrete platforms, wooden plank paths, and verdant garden sections. a central pool ties all volumes and elements together, generating a common area in the heart of the complex where residents can gather, socialize and relax.

all images by FG+SG – fernando guerra

preserving the pre-existing vegetation

the residential extension by pereira miguel arquitectos takes shape as a series of rectangular concrete platforms, laid on the site on only one level. all volumes were strategically positioned so that the existing plants could be preserved. this was achieved by placing the units between the trees in a way that would also correspond with the solar orientation of the site. the architects have meticulously studied the relationship between the new structures and the existing house, in order to create a residential ensemble with cohesion. it is exactly this bond between the existing and the new that makes the whole project fit harmoniously into the landscape that surrounds it.

the pre-existing dwelling and the new units are connected by a path of wooden planks, that starts at the southeast side of the garden, and leads to the four parallelepiped volumes. in addition to the paths, a new entrance to the house was created, that works as an exterior entrance space. this newly structured volume is clad in reflective glass, seemingly disappearing into its surroundings.

promoting an indoor/outdoor lifestyle

the four volumes all have a similar language and construction system. however, one of them stands out since it is larger than the others. this structure houses the social area, comprised of a living and dining area. all units are characterized by flat platforms, as well as wooden beams that extend from the interior to the exterior. the projected roofs not only create a generous shaded area around the volumes, protecting occupants from the summer heat, but also generate an indoor/outdoor living experience, while bringing attention to the natural landscape.

in order to further promote this indoor/outdoor lifestyle, each bedroom has its own small private patio. together these spaces make up the bedroom suites, with a bedroom and private bathroom. the bathrooms are defined by the wooden plank flooring also used in access paths around the site.