From colonial to contemporary, Brazilian architecture firm Gisele Taranto Arquitetura transformed this aging home in Rio de Janeiro into a modern-day paradise. The cool white facade features wide expanses of glass and wood panels that give it a natural edge, complementing the lush, leafy jungle surrounding it.
Inside, the home’s style is bright and open, illuminated by the warm sun seeping in through massive floor-to-ceiling folding windows. The living room flows out onto the elegantly furnished patio area, providing a dewy backdrop for everyday living.
The neutral dining area is simple, soothing and smooth – elegance defined.
Multiple lounging areas offer a range of cool spots and styles that beg to be explored, from the earthy library equipped with natural wood shelves, to the minimalist rooftop loft finished in a mod style of white with pops of vibrant red.
A rooftop patio is a sweet retreat accessible from the glazed loft area, complete with minimalist planting – perfect for contemplation and meditation.
The chic, modern aesthetic of the interiors opens to the outdoors through glazed walls in almost every room. And with this sunny, sizzling climate, the outdoors are the place to be! Whether relaxing in the shade, sharing a meal, or soaking up some sun, this home has an outdoor equivalent to every interior.
Visible and accessible through the sliding glass walls, the verdant garden features mature trees and leafy palms bowing to the sun, offering a cool shady refuge to escape the heat of the day. A refreshing pool is too tempting to turn down.
Cozy natural wood dining and side tables, beautiful Paola Lenti’s outdoor furniture, comfy contemporary sofas and daybeds, and other modern classics gracefully fill the space. We love the furniture!
And check out the master bedroom … roomy, neutrally decorated space with its own TV and lounging area for two, really a dreamy place.
Notice the perfect harmony between the light grey wall paneling, headboards and light natural wood bedside tables?
Gorgeousely designed bathrooms with fancy shower fixtures complete the overall modern look. Not much is left of the colonial style …
Two built-in rain shower heads are controlled from a stainless steel column inside of an oversized glass enclosure finished with a unique marble backdrop.
We particularly like this cozy bathroom design – a modern shower column, two-level sauna seating, and a sunken tub, all conveniently ‘tackled’ under the glass ceiling.
Gisele Taranto Arquitetura
photo credit: MCA Estudio