Bruno Dias Arquitectura uses the word "Âmago" to name this project, which in Portuguese means marrow, centre, nucleus or focal point and organizes the housing program using an orthogonal layout, on a single floor, which focuses all attention on the large central courtyard. From this patio, the program of the house unfolds horizontally.
The main entrances, for people and vehicles, are located to the east of the plot. From the entrance space, the entrance leads to the most important space in the house which takes centre stage in the meetings, to the social area, which extends to a porch as a space for barbecues. Along this axis are different rooms such as the gym, the study, and the bathrooms.
On the north side, there is a patio that allows the entry of light and natural ventilation. In the living room, there is a piece of furniture designed specifically for this space, which hides the private quarters. In total, there are four rooms and small attached patios.
"Casa Âmago" by Bruno Dias Arquitectura. Photograph by Hugo Santos Silva.
"Casa Âmago" by Bruno Dias Arquitectura. Photograph by Hugo Santos Silva.
Description of project by Bruno Dias Arquitectura
In the historic centre of the village of Ansião, on a slightly sloped land, Casa Âmago emerges. The plot had two small houses in ruins, with no architectural interest, and as such, renovating them was not an option. However, it wouldn’t be in harmony with the surroundings to plan a contemporary house with no connection to the neighbouring buildings. Thus, the first glimpse of this house does not give away what is beyond the wall and gate.
A one-floor building, with a large central patio, the core from which the theme unfolds into all the other spaces and organisation.
"Âmago" means marrow, centre, core, focal point, and this central patio works as the main point of the house.
The main entrance is located on the east, whether reached on foot or by car, the main hall takes you directly to the social area, living room, kitchen and barbecue area. Along this axis, you can find the technical and service room areas, such as the gym, study, launderette, service toilet room and utility room. All these spaces lead to a patio on the northern side, allowing natural light and ventilation. The social area, set on the west side and onto a garden, brings in a natural afternoon and early evening light, the time when people most enjoy the space. The barbecue area is an essential space in this house, as it provides privileged social interaction with friends.
"Casa Âmago" by Bruno Dias Arquitectura. Photograph by Hugo Santos Silva.
In the living room, you will find a piece of furniture that was specifically designed for this space, which hides the private quarters, thus ensuring privacy for users. Two of the bedrooms and the suite are turned west onto the garden. The third bedroom, the shared bathroom and the private bathroom are turned east towards the central patio. Both bathroom facilities of the private quarters have a patio, which allows for natural light and more pleasant space.
The house is organised in an orthogonal layout, which contrasts with the organic roof slabs in reinforced concrete, with circular patios. The presence of wood in most of the spaces of "Casa Âmago", gives a unique and personal touch to them, flowing into the core area - the central patio.
