DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE
Leaf House
1 SEPTEMBER 2010
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The house that existed on this very special 40 000m2 site was totally disassembled and re-erected in another beach location, outside Rio de Janeiro at Buzios. The unique home that replaced it has a built area of 800m2 and is described by the architects as ‘a simple beach house, with open and comfortable spaces’.
This was the main prerequisite in the brief from their client. Say the architects: ‘We tried to design and construct the house so that it would synergise with the natural beauty of the site where possible. We opted for natural materials and large glass windows in order to take advantage of the ocean breezes and views. The ground floor is totally integrated with the landscape and has virtually no walls; the upper level where the bedrooms are located is more private and reclusive.
‘Considering the wild, natural allure of the location there were no specific problems encountered. The most difficult element to build was the leaf roof and here we used laminated timber for the beams, each made specifically for the roof plan. There are no corridors and the interior and exterior areas are virtually fused. Many sliding doors, most glazed, open up the interior to let the sea breeze in.
September/October 2010 Issue
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Comment on this article
It surprises me greatly that architecture hasn't evolved to this standard in South Africa? What is wrong with our Architects? Are we stuck in a Tuscan nightmare?
MATHEW SMITH on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at 20:42 PM
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Ground floor living is virtually open and windowless. This floorplan takes advantage of ocean breezes – lofty ceilings help. Décor is rustic yet contemporary – the overall effect dramatically casual.
Credit(s): location: Angra dos Reis, Brazil, architecture: Mareines + Patalano Arquitetura, lighting design: Airton Pimenta, landscape design: Marita Adania & photography: Leonardo Finotti & Predro Lobo
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Natural timber predominates even in the sleeping areas. High ceilings again aid ventilation on the upper floor.
© Predro Lobo
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Unique and patently Brazilian in concept, this is close to the ultimate seaside home.
© Predro Lobo
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