This modernist home in Tavira, Portugal is a futuristic vision of modern angled walls and crisp white exterior, within a pastoral setting. This unusual house design by Portuguese architects Vitor Vilhena Architects features outdoor entertaining areas and a massive glazed facade which floods interiors with natural light while marrying nature and architecture. A glass walkway leads you through the house and it surrounding environment at the same time. Past the cool glass walls, minimalist interiors are bright and white, their unadorned aesthetic putting the focus squarely on the crisp architectural lines and contemporary aesthetic.
The house is a sharp contrast to the countryside, surrounded by 400 olive trees dotting the landscape.
The angled walls seem to emerge from the landscape, culminating in a subtle flat-topped structure that screams simplicity.
While simple, the house is certainly not boring. The design boasts a series of indoor / outdoor living spaces, integrated nooks and courtyards that expand living beyond the home’s walls.
Glass walls reveal see-through hallways and interior rooms that are open to the outdoors – if not physically, then visually – adding that alfresco element at every turn.
An amazing twisted, knotty tree just outside adds a rustic element in contrast to the cool, clean look of the home.
Connecting the home’s two separate volumes, a glazed hallway is, in our opinion, one of the home’s best features – protected from the elements, yet open to the views.
There are some small details that make a strong impact, like this strip of exposed concrete strip sliced into the ceiling.
The concrete ceiling becomes a focal point in this office and den area – the only “unrefined” element in this otherwise pristine, perfectly polished space.
The built-in bookcase follows the slightly slanted lines of the wall and ceiling.
The clean white palette spills into every nook and cranny of the home, from its walls and furnishings, to its neutral toned floors. The uniformity makes the home’s various components blend into each other, enhancing its sense of space. The living room is a soothing space, befitting of this tranquil setting.
Just on the other side of the wall, the kitchen is quite a dish! Despite the popularity of open concept layout, you’ve got to appreciate the serenity afforded by a bit of separation between living areas.
Sit, and be inspired – if not by the architecture and finishes, then by the view!
The bedroom features one of the only pops of color you’ll come across in the whole house – hot pink bedding!
A sumptuous spa style bath is also awash in white, with warm grey marble boasting rich organic veining throughout.
On the other side of the glass wall, an exterior walkway leads you past the inviting azure pool.
The pool’s shape and glassy surface echo the window wall of the house.
Site plan:
Floor plan:
Elevations:
Vitor Vilhena Architects
photo credit: Joao Morgado
