luis almedia e sousa + fernando monterio build 'villa azorea' on idyllic portuguese island

designed by local architects luis almedia e sousa and fernando monterio, ‘villa azorea‘ has been constructed in the heart of são miguel island in the portuguese archipelago of azores. situated on a plot surrounded by nature, the new house has been formed to provide residents with a direct connection to the natural environment. focusing on clean, horizontal lines and an abundance of glazing, the resulting scheme articulates a minimal and contemporary architectural expression.

all images © alexander bogorodskiy

the plan has been split by the architects into two single storey volumes, connected via a slim canopy. the block to the rear of the site is home to more private functions, such as bedroom spaces, while the front block contains more social areas, such as kitchen, dining and living spaces. the volumes are characterized by the large windows, which work to bring an abundance of natural light into the interior while opening out to the exterior, blurring the boundary between inside and outside.  

inside, the rooms are defined by the use of exposed concrete and dark volcanic stone. this grey color palette is complemented by the use of timber flooring and wooden furniture, bringing a touch of warmth to the villa. the internal spaces are generous and the house also boasts a large garden area, with a manicured lawn and swimming pool to relax in. nestled on a hillside plot with a stunning panoramic view of the ocean, villa azorea in essence provides a peaceful retreat in the middle of the atlantic ocean.

video © diego turiel

project info:

project name: ‘villa azorea‘

location: são miguel island, portugal

architects: luis almedia e sousa and fernando monterio

photographer: alexander bogorodskiy

videographer: diego turiel

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom