studio arte revives the modernist casa dos terracos

studio arte revives the modernist casa dos terraços
all images courtesy of studio arte

studio arte has completed ‘casa dos terraços’, the transformation of a 1960s residence near the coastal town of carvoeiro, portugal. the property is distinguished by a series of terraces, which step upward to the north, culminating at the house and pool deck. the renovation centered around converting what was previously a vacation property into a primary single family home. while the existing modernist structure, characterized by pure, white, organic forms, was largely maintained, efforts were made to open up the dwelling by creating various indoor-outdoor spaces. for instance, operable glass shutters allow the kitchen’s counter to open to the exterior dining patio. also, a large hinged door links the main living room with the roof terrace. improvements made to the pool and large deck are a prominent aspect of the project, and provide an enjoyable place for play and relaxation.

the existing modernist structure inspired design decisions, and was largely maintained

in addition to creating permeable views and circulation, this openness allows for natural ventilation which helps to passively cool the building during the warm seasons. this climatic conditioning is supplemented by replacing the traditional red roof with white flat-tiles.

large curving retaining walls peel off of the house to create planting areas between the road and pool above

exterior staircases connect the ground floor patio to the roof terrace

a large glass door rotates open to connect the indoor living room with the outdoor patio

a panelized wall closes to separate the kitchen from the lounge room

 the wall is able to fold open to unite the kitchen with the lounge area

glass shutters flip outward to connect the courtyard dining area with a kitchen counter

the pool and landscape illuminate at night

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project info:

location: carvoeiro, lagoa (algarve), portugal
site area: 6,080 sqm
built area: 250 sqm
project dates: 2012-2013
architecture: studio arte / arch. joão carriço + arch. arnold aarssen
interior design: lusco fusco (concept store) – designer janneke haane
construction: domingos reis.
electricity: joão cabrita
plumbing: antónio amaro
landscaping: studioarte & palm garden
pool: studioarte & revipool