estudio flume builds beach kiosk + boat refuge to support traditional 'caiçara' lifestyle in brazil

são paulo-based architecture firm estudio flume has realized a beach kiosk and boat refuge, situated in the jaguanum island within a protected region of the mata atlantica (tropical biosphere) in brazil. the project is designed to accommodate a local couple with a traditional lifestyle, based on subsistence agriculture, hunting and fishing. during the evening, the structure is used as a secure boat refuge.

all images by german nieva

estudio flume has specifically designed the beach kiosk to include a kitchen and a sitting area, thus accommodating the ‘caiçara’ couple’s everyday life. ‘caiçara’ is the name for the traditional inhabitants of the coastal regions of the south-eastern and southern brazil and they descend from indigenous people, europeans and africans. the project aims to help these locals, whose way of life is threatened by real estate speculation, restrictive laws, and declining fish stocks.

the project fits within a wider strategic plan to gradually and systematically turn the current predatory tourism into ecotourism. hence, the kiosk aims to develop a sustainable income opportunity for the couple and other fishermen of the area, by promoting the local produce and traditional food. this kiosk will target visitors interested in caiçaras culture, as well as the nature of the island.

the kiosk was built in three weeks and was constructed considering the close relationship of the local people with nature, and incorporating much of the outdoors, sea and tropical vegetation into the structure. the beach kiosk sits just meters away from the water, with the high tide bringing the sand inside the sitting area. in this way, the beach is brought within the building, and the limits between outside and inside areas are blurred.

the roofs and large openings allow for cross ventilation and views out to the sea and to the green background of banana trees, some of which were brought into the site forming a ‘circulo de bananeras’ to naturally treat grey waters. locally sourced bamboo was used to enclose the kitchen area and translucent polypropylene sheets to cover the roof, bringing 70% of natural light into the space whilst filtering UV and turning the kiosk into a lantern at night.