mezzo atelier converts historic stable into a contemporary pink house in the azores

italian/portuguese architecture practice mezzo atelier has designed the ‘pink house’ — photographed here by fernando guerra — on the atlantic island of são miguel, in the azores. in completing the project, a stable from the beginning of the 20th century was converted into two guesthouses where history and contemporaneity coexist in harmony. the interiors also feature furniture and industrial design by the architects.  

all images by fernando guerra

‘the design’s main goal was to keep the construction’s character, lines, and its rural atmosphere‘, explains mezzo atelier. the structure was adapted to a contemporary standard as new openings were carefully placed within the colorful façade and on the stone wall. a new addition to the existing structure creates a second house that is carefully integrated with the original building.

the building had been owned by the same family for six generations

the two guest houses are designed as well-connected and complementary spaces. in the large house, a ground floor is characterized by several openings to exterior spaces. at mid-level, private suites and a service area provide an intimate space. the open plan upper level features dining areas beneath a high-ceiling. a terrace has been placed on the roof of the smaller house which can be accessed from the kitchen.

the design alludes to vernacular azorean architecture of the region

the design alludes to vernacular azorean architecture of the region as illustrated by the use of whitened wood in the interiors and the aged pink and ochre tones. the interiors, which include custom made furniture by mezzo atelier, create a neutral and peaceful atmosphere. local cryptomeria wood ( japanese cedar) was used abundantly for construction and furniture, while old wooden beams of pine and acacia from the site were converted into bespoke tables.

at mid-level, private suites and a service area provide an intimate space for guests

a terrace has been placed on the roof of the smaller house which can be accessed from the kitchen

the pre-existing stone wall was carefully preserved and adapted to the new design

local cryptomeria wood was used abundantly for construction and furniture

the dining table in reclaimed acacia wood is part of the NL series furniture by mezzo atelier

the metallic pendant lamps by mezzo atelier represent the nine islands of azores over the stairs

custom made furniture built in japanese cedar decorates the home

a concrete floor is included at ground level, while the ceiling was built from whitened wood

in the large house, a ground floor is characterized by several openings to exterior spaces

the house is located on the atlantic island of são miguel, in the azores 

axonometric diagram | image courtesy of mezzo atelier

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name: pink house
typology: guest houses, hospitality
architecture, interior design and product design: mezzo atelier
team: joana de oliveira, giacomo mezzadri
client: pink house azores
project year: 2013/2016
construction: 2016/2017
location: ponta delgada, s. miguel island (azores, portugal)
surface: 250 sqm
construction: arco mais
photography: fernando guerra