This project is led by architect Lutero Leme from the Arquitecnika studio in Brasília, aiming to revive the brutalist residences constructed in the federal capital during the 1970s. The original building was designed by architect João Filgueiras, also known as Lelé.
Situated on a 12,000 square meter site, the construction covers 1,968 square meters. The renovation preserves the original exposed concrete and the building’s volume, while integrating modern technological solutions. Although the architectural style and defining features are maintained, every other element has been thoughtfully reconsidered.
Structurally, this building presents a challenge: it is supported by only four columns, spans two floors, and features a large concrete framework. The roof is secured with rod-shaped plates, allowing the house to shift up to two centimeters daily, depending on the surrounding temperature. This movement was the foundation for the entire renovation strategy, requiring materials that accommodate expansion without causing cracks or fissures.
Regarding the original floor plan, the homeowner noticed a lack of privacy in the bedrooms. To address this, the architect incorporated new installations and acoustic technology. Aesthetically, decorative carved elements were used to separate rooms while allowing natural ventilation.
The interior finishes include exposed concrete, wood, marble, and granite. Previously dull lighting fixtures have been replaced with modern lighting and automation systems. Large glass panels in every room provide expansive views of the outdoors. The living room features glass partitions and offers a 270-degree panoramic view, showcasing the garden, the city, and Lake Paranoá.
One of the most remarkable features is the Athos Bulcão paneling, covering 170.8 square meters, making it the largest paneling piece found in any private residence worldwide.
The architect also designed and oversaw the construction of a new entertainment area, which did not exist previously. This addition includes a lounge, gourmet kitchen, spa center, wine cellar, spacious bathroom, and an infinity swimming pool. A rotating sculptural panel with a sunshade function was created to unify the space.
Lutero Leme also designed the landscaping, featuring a 380-meter-long walkway adorned with green grass, flower beds, fruit plants, and pavilions, providing a serene and lush environment.
Sustainability is another key aspect of this project. The entire overhanging roof area is utilized to install solar panels that provide hot water for the household, swimming pool, and spa. Two underground water tanks, with a combined capacity of 40,000 liters, collect rainwater and reclaimed water for garden irrigation. Additionally, a six-meter composting system has been installed.
To reduce future environmental impact further, the property is equipped with four electric vehicle charging stations.
Design Drawings
△ Axonometric diagram
△ General layout plan
△ First floor plan
△ Second floor plan
△ South elevation view
△ North elevation view
△ East elevation view
△ West elevation view
△ Section diagram
△ Section diagram
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Brasília, Brazil
Architectural Design: Arquitecnika
Area: 1,968 m²
Year: 2019
Photographer: Edgard Cesar
Manufacturers: Alutec, Arte em Cinema, AutoDesk, Bontempo, Cinex, Concreto, Deca, Finestri, Gadebrás, Interbagno, Isoeste, Jacuzzi, Knauf, Leila Bessa, Light Design, Marmoraria Alvorada, Portobello, Rocca, Sanitrit, Sherwin-Williams, and more
Lead Architects: Lutero Leme, Renan Mendes Monteiro
Original Architect: João Filgueiras Lima
Engineer: Rui Vieira
Assistant: Anna Carolina Ferreira Neves
Structural Design: Arquitecnika
Landscape Design: Lutero Leme
Structural and MEP Engineering: Engest
Acoustic Design: Síntese – Architect Cândida
So beautiful