White surfaces
The “Salt Color House” is located in front of the so-called Mira channel in Costa Nova do Prado, a unique landscape close to salt water, filled with ample vegetation.
Design Philosophy
The residence features the area’s “maritime nature”, becoming a home for the architect and his family and creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically compatible. The design intent was to create an intimate relationship between the interior and exterior. Consequently, an exterior patio creates a bridge with the south façade of the house, allowing ample natural light to enter the building.
Functional Layout
The interior is made of half floors and double-height spaces in order to minimize the risk of flooding in the basement as well as create a vertical dynamic throughout the residence. The living and dining areas are located on the upper floor, looking down to the estuary. Furthermore, the “social” space of the residence extends outside to the terrace on the roof. Finally, the bedroom and bathroom are located on the lower floors, in order to ensure a sufficient level of privacy.
Material Palette & Façade Design
The materials chosen for the construction were primarily ceramic tiles, wood, and aluminum. Shades of white dominate all the spaces, creating a light and airy atmosphere that carries through to the façade of the residence. Vertical, narrow panels painted in white are placed strategically across the exterior facades providing shading and creating a playful light interplay within the interior.