Casa do Sobreiro | Amarante, Portugal

Interconnected Volumes

The residence is located in an isolated land, approximately 730m2 and part of a small rural cluster in the parish of Figueiró. At the center of the site resides a century-old Cork Oak tree, which becomes the most prominent element of the intervention.

Positioning and Orientation

The built volume of this single-family home is strategically situated in relation to the Cork Oak tree as well as the neighboring land, rocky roads, and the agricultural reserve. The surrounding landscape and sun path also play a crucial role in the house’s orientation.

Volumetric Design

The building’s main elevation is comprised of a solid wall and a rigid square volume that protrudes from the wall’s straight line, indicating the entrance. The lack of openings gives the interior complete privacy and closes the house off to the road. In contrast, the south elevation faces the surrounding landscape and opens to the garden. The upper volume -cladded with cork- cantilevers in relation to the ground floor volume -which is cladded with exposed, dark brick- forming a deck that spans across towards the majestic Cork Oak and at the same time acts as a roof for an outdoor seating area. On the other side of the house, the ground floor becomes double in height, forming an outdoor pool terrace and balconies for the bedrooms.

Functional Organization

The interior space is arranged as an open-plan layout and a central double-height volume around which the entrance hall, living room and kitchen are circulated. The ground floor includes all the necessary functions and amenities such as a pantry, a bathroom as well as a staircase that leads to the upper floor. The open, fluid design results to the seamless communication amongst the spaces, regardless of the floor they are located in.