Project: Modern Seaside Home
Architects: Martins Afonso Atelier de Design
Location: Les Portes-en-Ré, France
Completion date: 2018
Area: 90m2
Photo credit: Mickaël Martins Afonso
The Modern Seaside Home by Martins Afonso Atelier de Design creates a seamless connection between architecture and its natural surroundings. Nestled in a lush garden north of Île de Ré, this coastal residence unveils itself in layers, with views that change alongside the seasons and passing time. Each architectural element captures these moments, shaping a dynamic and tranquil living environment.
Rooted in the Landscape
The design embodies the owners’ vision for a home that aligns with their lifestyle and preferences, combining comfort with warmth. Renovation efforts carefully balanced the existing structure with modern updates to enhance openness and functionality. As a result, the Modern Seaside Home opens up on all sides, inviting in natural light and offering multiple perspectives of the surrounding garden.
Interior Flow and Outdoor Connection
Inside, each room flows purposefully, fostering new connections between spaces and creating meaningful links to the outdoors. Solid wood elements, particularly oak, define this flow, creating a cohesive visual theme throughout the home. The central area, connected by solid oak strips, links the two living rooms with the dining room and kitchen. These central features frame outdoor views, subtly drawing elements of the garden into the interior spaces.
A Cozy, Welcoming Atmosphere
This central oak feature not only unifies the main areas but also adds warmth and coziness, inviting residents to pause and appreciate the view. Furthermore, thoughtful material choices, such as terracotta and finely crafted oak details, enrich the inviting atmosphere. The design’s hidden doors and subtle shadow gaps add refinement, creating a smooth interaction between old and new elements.
Details Crafted for Harmony
Every detail within the Modern Seaside Home has been meticulously crafted to create a harmonious space. From the choice of terracotta to the intricate work on solid oak, each aspect aligns to bring unity and continuity. This careful approach honors the home’s original character while infusing it with a contemporary touch.
Ultimately, in the Modern Seaside Home, Martins Afonso Atelier de Design has crafted a residence that respects and elevates its natural setting. This seaside retreat becomes a warm, inviting haven where each room, sequence, and frame contributes to a sense of unity and harmony, reflecting the beauty of its coastal landscape.
