Brazilian Casa AL by studio arthur casas

Photo by Fernando Guerra, all images courtesy of Studio Arthur Casas.

Located in the Brazilian hills near Rio de Janeiro, Studio Arthur Casas has built ‘Casa AL’, a three-storey property offering panoramic views of the region’s outstanding landscape. Working closely with the home’s owner, a long time client of the practice, the challenge for the architects was to maximize sightlines towards the ocean, as the original plot provided no direct views of the sea.

The property maximizes sightlines towards the ocean, offering panoramic views of the region’s dramatic terrain. Photo by Fernando Guerra

The identified solution was to relocate the entrance, social areas and the infinity pool to the first floor, with direct access from the higher level of the steep adjoining street. Consequently, the elevated property boasts impressive vistas along the shoreline. Living accommodation is articulated around the dwelling’s pool, with large glass panels utilized to dissolve the division between internal and external space.

The entrance, social areas and infinity pool are positioned at first floor level. Photo by Fernando Guerra

Surrounded by an enclosed garden, guestrooms and service areas are positioned at ground level, while a smaller timber-clad volume with smaller proportions is placed at the uppermost level. This independent unit houses private facilities such as the residence’s master suite and a spa, both oriented towards the horizon.

The materials employed throughout the design reflect the regional landscape, with quarry stone and cumaru wood (teak) locally sourced and extremely resistant to weather variations and erosion. Internally, warm tones and textures establish a casual and comfortable living environment with the best of brazilian furniture fused with carefully curated foreign furnishings.

A smaller timber-clad volume with smaller proportions is placed at the uppermost level. Photo by Fernando Guerra

Large glass panels are utilized to dissolve the division between internal and external space. Photo by Fernando Guerra

Living accommodation is articulated around the dwelling’s elongated pool. Photo by Fernando Guerra

Internally, warm tones and textures establish a casual and comfortable living environment.

Photo by Fernando Guerra - Source: designboom.com