The project began with the goal of revitalizing a building severely damaged by a major fire in the mid-1990s, which caused the roof to collapse. This unique structure is situated in a remote area surrounded by a mix of dense traffic roads, uneven grasslands, commercial zones, and chaotic residential clusters. It lies adjacent to the southern Atlantic coast, with another building perched atop a mountain to the east and the urban area stretching to the west. The scale and location of the site demanded a powerful architectural intervention.
The first priority was to thoroughly assess and reinforce the existing structure of the house. Given the site’s distinct context, preserving the house’s privacy was crucial both inside and out. The design carefully integrates views of the surrounding landscape and maintains a direct connection to the sea. The mountain range and cityscape were re-evaluated as part of a comprehensive strategy, leading to the addition of external doors, windows, and a vertical terrace facing east. Another terrace was placed on the roof, oriented westward to establish a visual link with the city of Ponta Delgada.
To accommodate the building’s nearly quadrilateral shape—14 meters wide and two stories tall—a continuous flat roof with four slopes was designed, with the roof ending flush at the wall. This approach gave the house a fresh, contemporary appearance.
Japanese cedar wood was carefully selected for key areas within the house. Over time, the wood naturally oxidizes, developing a subtle yellow hue that reflects the passage of time. This warm tone contrasts with the artificial insulation materials used elsewhere, softening the starkness of the pure white exterior volume. The almost reflective white façade stands out on the site, engaging with the surrounding reality while maintaining privacy and not openly revealing the interior spaces.
Project Drawings
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Second Floor Plan
▲ Third Floor Plan
▲ Roof Plan
▲ Elevation View
▲ Elevation View
▲ Elevation View
▲ Elevation View
▲ Section AA
▲ Section BB
▲ Section CC
▲ Section DD
▲ Model 1
▲ Model 2
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Architectural Design: Salworks
Area: 295.0 m²
Year: 2018
Lead Architects: Rui Sabino de Sousa, Gonçalo Cordeiro
Engineering: RPM, Construções
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