mf+arquitetos applies black cobogó bricks and timber brises to house in brazil

using different materials to articulate four visually distinct but connected volumes, mf+arquitetos has designed ‘cobogós house’ in franca, brazil. alongside a carefully considered selection of materials, the new dwelling combines stylish interiors with a heavenly outdoor pool.

all images by felipe araujo

from the front elevation, the entrance is distinguished by a tall volume clad in traditional cobogó bricks, giving the project its name. created in the 1920s by three engineers – amadeu oliveira coimbra, ernesto august boeckmann and antônio de góis – cobogós are a perforated construction technique that lets in natural light and ventilation while providing protection from the hot sun and creating a beautiful dappled lighting effect. the upper volume is covered in slatted timber cladding and houses the more intimate spaces of the residence. on the ground floor, a black-rendered volume comprises the kitchen, laundry room and garage. connecting this block with the double-height entrance is a stone-clad volume that contains the dining room. 

the dining room opens out to the backyard, where timber decking creates a continuous indoor outdoor living space. this lush garden features a lap pool that stretches the entire length of the site and connects to the living room and other spaces.

the same materials are present inside and outside, creating an effective continuity between the interior and outdoor environment. for example, the dark colored walls in the living room extend outside to the boundary wall. this is done by mf + arquitetos with the aim of reinforcing the use and function of each space. the furniture pieces have also been selected to emphasize the purity of the straight lines present in the architecture.

project name:

project name: cobogós house

location: franca, são paulo, brazil

architecture office: mf + arquitetos

responsible architects: filipi oliveira / mariana oliveira

project team: filipi oliveira, mariana oliveira, lucas gonçalves

engineering: cenafer

landscaping: monica costa

builder: josé domingos

gross built area: 5597 ft2 (520 m2)

completion year: 2019

photography: felipe araujo