minimalist casa luum villa by pedro domingos embraces local topography

embedded into a landscape occupied by hundreds of olive, almond and cork trees, a four bedroom villa comprising white walls and concrete floors offers a tranquil place to stay. designed by pedro domingos as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations, casa luum is set upon the breathtaking setting of a nature reserve located in the algarve, southern portugal.

images courtesy of the architect

casa luum’s whitewashed volumes are based on a traditional mediterranean structure of small plots delimited by stone walls. pedro domingos designed the property with an elementary system similar to local popular architecture featuring white concrete floors, separations and ceilings, wooden window frames and steel sliding doors. the architect sourced local materials for the handmade doors, windows and shutters, in addition to the use of natural stone for the pool, kitchen counters, sinks and benches.

the atmosphere of the 4-bedroom house is defined by a set of spaces of light and shadow where water is the primordial material. organized across two levels, it connects with the exterior through large windows and doors, rooftop terraces, multiple patios and a large courtyard that contains a semi-enclosed pool.

the entrance level hosts a central patio and a spacious kitchen which act as hubs for guests to socialize. beyond this, four bedrooms separated by smaller patios feature minimalist interiors and the necessary space for privacy. on the upper floor there is a panoramic living room connecting to a back garden and a huge rooftop terrace. as well as unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, from there is direct access to the pool via a staircase that literally dips into the water.