Lux Mare translates to “a ray of light from the sea.” This private residence is named after its stunning location and view, where one can witness a ray of light reflecting at the horizon over the ocean.
The residence is surrounded by several independent villas dating back to the 1970s, each featuring lush gardens. The project encompasses two large plots where the original two-story buildings showed considerable wear and tear, with one unfinished, abandoned structure standing awkwardly beside them. In response, the architect chose to redesign and rebuild the residence, respecting the spatial characteristics of the site.
The new private residence consists of two separate yet complementary blocks. The architect preserved the original building’s silhouette in the exterior design of both blocks. This design symbolizes the union between two individuals, expressing love through architecture. The gently curved forms not only represent the connection between the two blocks but also highlight their distinct identities.
The lower, slightly forward block is called Casa Mare and is nestled within the garden, surrounded by greenery. The other block, situated behind it, is named Casa Lux and boasts spectacular views thanks to its prime location.
The two separate blocks are seamlessly integrated into the existing terrain, avoiding any sense of ostentation. The most striking feature is the horizontal facade facing the sea, which gleams brilliantly with the reflection of the ocean’s light. This waterfront facade (designed with BIM technology) offers residents diverse views, including lush vegetation around the homes, rugged cliffs, the vast ocean, and clear blue skies.
In the courtyard, the architect introduced a distinctive wavy wood facade as a tribute to renowned 20th-century architect Alvar Aalto and his Nordic design approach. This element also connects with the homeowner’s sense of nostalgia. The residence combines the rugged architectural styles of southern Europe with the refined design culture of the north, resulting in a home that is both primal and visually captivating.
Overall, the residence’s simple silhouette, combined with its clean, uniform white plaster facade and well-balanced architectural elements, sets a high standard for comprehensive design excellence.
Interior
Project Drawings
▲ Casa Mare Floor Plan
▲ Casa Mare Elevation
▲ Casa Mare Profile
▲ Casa Lux Floor Plan
▲ Casa Lux Elevation
▲ BIM Casa Lux Sectional View
▲ Axonometric Diagram
▲ Physical Model
▲ Hand-Drawn Project Sketch
▲ Hand-Drawn Project Sketch
Project Information
Architectural Firm: Mário Martins Atelier
Location: Lagos, Portugal
Category: Independent Residential Buildings
Year: 2019
Photographer: Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
Suppliers: Lagopórtico, Cristalmax, Reynaers Aluminium, Barbot, Astralpool, OHM, DAIKIN, J.Dias, Wall Cladding, Valadares, Technology, Wardrobes, Flooring Cladding, EFM, Doors, Grohe
Project Collaboration: Nuno Colaço, Kirsti Oygarden, Rui Duarte, Sónia Fialho, Mariana Franco
Construction: Lagopórtico, Lda
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