Project: House in Serra do Louro
Architecture: Cimbre
Location: Palmela, Portugal
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Francisco Nogueira
Perched at the highest point of the plot in the Arrábida Natural Park, House in Serra do Louro by Cimbre replaces a dilapidated ruin while preserving its spirit. The design team carefully demolished the old structure and reclaimed the original stones to create boundary walls. Consequently, the new home integrates smoothly into the surrounding rural landscape. Moreover, by opening predominantly to the south, the house capitalizes on abundant natural light and panoramic views of the protected Serra do Louro.
Celebrating Outdoor Privacy and Light
To ensure varying degrees of intimacy in each outdoor area, the walls—rising 2.4 meters high—extend beyond the edges of the regular four-pitched roof. As a result, the residence maintains privacy from the street to the north and from the adjacent land to the west. Additionally, the large glazed openings admit ample sunlight, forging a strong connection between the interior living spaces and the natural environment beyond.
A Warm and Durable Material Palette
Inside, birch wood ceilings impart warmth and contrast with the imposing presence of exposed concrete walls. This coherent architectural language continues outdoors, where concrete, natural zinc roofing, and aluminum cladding safeguard the window frames. Therefore, House in Serra do Louro is designed to age gracefully and require minimal upkeep, ensuring longevity while preserving its refined aesthetic.
A Thoughtful Spatial Arrangement
The social area, located at the heart of the house, separates the two private zones to meet the needs of the resident family. Consequently, the master bedroom remains independent from the other two bedrooms, striking an ideal balance between communal gathering and personal retreat. Through meticulous planning and respectful use of local resources, House in Serra do Louro by Cimbre stands as a testament to sustainable design and enduring comfort in the picturesque Portuguese countryside.
