Project: JMC House
Architecture: Atelier d’Arquitectura Lopes da Costa
Main Architect: José António Lopes da Costa, Tiago Meireles
Colaboration: Sérgio Almeida
Location: Escapães, Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal
Year: 2021
Photo Credits: Ivo Tavares Studio
Designed by Atelier d’Arquitectura Lopes da Costa, the JMC House is situated in Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal. Nestled on a triangular plot with a steep slope, the unique topography of the land has significantly influenced the house’s shape and volume.
Site and Orientation
The house is positioned at the highest point on the East side of the plot, primarily opening to the West. This strategic placement takes full advantage of the land’s natural slope, distributing the structure over three floors. Pedestrian and vehicle access are located at different levels on Rua Dr. Domingos da Silva Coelho, utilizing the natural gradient of the road and the terrain.
Access and Connectivity
Pedestrian access is located at a higher level on the ground floor, leading to the house entrance via a flap. Vehicle access is positioned further west at a lower level, leading to a partially covered patio that connects to the garage and service entrance in the basement. The two levels are externally connected through a ramp on the south side and a staircase that links the ground floor patio, next to the pool, to the basement parking patio.
Ground Floor Layout
The ground floor comprises the living and dining rooms, the kitchen, a bedroom/office, and a bathroom, all opening to the West over the terrace and the pool. The kitchen is closely connected to the covered patio, which features an outdoor bathroom and barbecue area. A staircase to the south connects all three floors, enhancing vertical integration and accessibility.
First Floor Layout
On the first floor, three bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, are arranged along a corridor that partially opens to the double-height ceiling of the ground floor. The main suite, located to the north above the bedroom/office, ensures a balanced distribution between the floors.
Basement Layout
The basement houses a garage, pantry, laundry room, bathroom, and a multipurpose room that opens onto an East-facing patio. This level provides essential support functions and additional living spaces, ensuring practicality and convenience.
Design and Aesthetics
The design aims to create a cohesive and formal structure with consistent volume and materials that distinguish each floor. This results in a dynamic and less compact form. The swimming pool, situated at the rear of the ground floor terrace, overlooks the western garden and visually connects with both the interior living spaces and the exterior covered area.
Visual and Functional Connection
The exterior design of the house, like its internal organization, enhances the visual and functional connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. It maximizes solar exposure while ensuring privacy from the surrounding land. The careful positioning of windows, terraces, and outdoor areas creates a harmonious blend of light, space, and function, making the JMC House a remarkable example of modern architecture.
Conclusion
Atelier d’Arquitectura Lopes da Costa has successfully designed a house that seamlessly integrates with its challenging landscape while providing functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. The JMC House stands as a testament to thoughtful architectural design, maximizing the unique features of its site to create a harmonious and dynamic home.
