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Casa A Is Built Around a Series of Voids for Additional Space and Privacy

08.12.19 | By
Casa A Is Built Around a Series of Voids for Additional Space and Privacy

Located on the outskirts of Guimarães, Portugal, Casa A is a new house designed by REM’A with a series of voids that help increase space and add privacy in an area of dense population. With so many surrounding homes and a desire for privacy, the design required clever planning. An asymmetrical upper floor is set near ground level hovering over the lower floor with sections that cantilever out. One of the home’s most noticeable traits is the top wooden exterior that’s laid out in a diagonal pattern meant to resemble a nest as if to protect the private spaces.

Over time, the wood will age with the weather and gradually fade to resemble the concrete color all around.

The perimeter wall at the back of the house is set out away from the hidden top floor deck. It gives the space privacy while still allowing the homeowners to be outside.

Voids in this part of the design make way for extra space in the social areas downstairs. The lower level spaces benefit from natural light without having the neighbor’s prying eyes on them at all times.

The grey color of the outdoor concrete continues inside with the floor, furnishings, and alternating stairs on the open staircase. The cool greys are complemented with natural wood details used throughout.

The large living area connects to the swimming pool when the wall of disappearing glass doors is open and hidden away.

Photos by Ivo Tavares Studio.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.