TETRO arquitetura's 'ponte house' bridges architecture and nature in brazil

ponte house: A Design Inspired by the Environment

Located on the scenic island of Florianópolis, Brazil, Ponte House by TETRO Arquitetura is an example of architecture designed with respect for its natural context. Florianópolis, known for its stunning sea and mountainous landscapes, is a coastal island renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic rock formations. The island, about 800 meters from the mainland, is connected by three bridges, including the iconic Hercílio Luz Bridge, which has become a symbol of the city.

Ponte House, perched on a slope overlooking the sea, responds thoughtfully to its natural surroundings, creating an architectural expression that goes beyond mere residential function. Positioned on the shores of the Cacupé Sea, the house integrates harmoniously with its environment. The design takes inspiration from the natural elements and local features, drawing on the imagery of bridges and rocks in the water to shape its architectural identity.

images © Joana França

Innovative Use of Eaves and Steel Structure

Addressing the challenge of solar exposure, the design team at TETRO Arquitetura incorporates its Ponte House with generous eaves structured from steel. This design enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal while serving a practical purpose by mitigating the effects of the setting sun. The steel structure and use of perforated plates echo the design of the Hercílio Luz Bridge, creating a subtle homage to this iconic structure. These elements are evident in both the house’s balconies and the bridge-like eaves.

The house’s structure is defined by two main beams that emerge from the terrain and rest on two supporting pillars. Around these beams, the bedrooms and social areas are arranged, providing an open and functional layout. A notable feature is the swimming pool, which is suspended above two additional bedrooms and extends towards the sea, creating a visual connection with the surrounding landscape. Inside the house, natural stones are incorporated into the design, reflecting the local environment and enhancing the connection to nature.

Ponte House is sited on the island of Florianópolis, known for its scenic beauty and iconic bridges

tetro arquitetura captures the spirit of the landscape

Casa Ponte is strategically aligned by TETRO Arquitetura to face west, offering unobstructed views of the continental sea and the Serra Catarinense mountains. This careful orientation and framing allows residents to fully appreciate the postcard beauty of the region, providing a dynamic and immersive experience as the natural sunlight and scenic views gradually change throughout the day. The house’s design encourages a sense of tranquility and connection to the breathtaking natural panoramas that define the coastal landscape of Florianópolis.

the structure features generous steel eaves to manage solar exposure

located on a seaside slope, Ponte House integrates with its environment, blending architecture with nature

the house’s design draws inspiration from the natural elements, especially the surrounding sea and rocks

two beams are supported by pillars, around which the bedrooms and social areas are arranged

project info:

project title: Casa Ponte

architecture: TETRO Arquitetura | @tetro.architecture

location: Florianópolis, Brazil

lead architects: Carlos Maia, Débora Mendes e Igor Macedo
landscape: Jardim e Cia; Terraço Paisagismo
structural: MV estruturas
electrical, plumbing: CA engenharia
lighting consultants: Allume

completion: 2024

photography: © Joana França | @joanafranca