Casa Pó by Ricardo Silva Carvalho Architects

Description project, by Ricardo Silva Carvalho Arquitectos.

Located on the west coast of Portugal in an agricultural area relatively close to the ocean, this new residence is situated in a village with quite heterogeneous features. In order to make the most out of the solar exposure and minimize the impact on the surroundings, the implementation on the ground distances itself as far as possible from the boundaries, having however, points in common with the adjoining buildings and thereby creating a more powerful presence without disrupting the existing surroundings, and contributing to a better design of the urban morphology.

The intention was to conceive a simple, clear, and interactive space from a functional point of view in relation to its users, reflecting only the essential, with the particular needs inherent to a space, and with specific uses and functions that fulfill all of the projected requirements; creating appropriate working, comfort, and environmental conditions.

Thus, spatial organization was the main focus, based on the idea of creating “light” circulations around every space. All spaces were made accessible to the open backyard surrounding the house, and with the main entrance through a covered patio that results from angled, butterfly-shaped roofs that feature an elliptical cutout, letting in light from the south.

The entrance of the house is characterized by a succession of spaces that mysteriously appear between volumes that never touch its limits and unravel through the continuity of the roof which progressively grows in scale until it reaches the rooms that are divided in height, revealing a small mezzanine that overlooks all areas of the house.

In the frequently used entryway there is a “meal” area supported by a food preparation counter within a cabinet that opens on both sides. One of these sides contains a common sanitary installation and the other a technical storage space that divides this area from the living room. The living room area extends outward through large windows that expand from the entrance, thereby illuminating and amplifying the relationship with the exterior. This area is bounded by a second cabinet facing it therefore concealing the most private areas of the residence. This second cabinet contains on one side a bathroom to support the bedrooms and on the other a staircase where one can access the mezzanine above the rooms. Across the entrance patio there is a parking space and a covered support structure to outside activities.