white perforated cubic facade wraps hybrid home and studio around a tree in brazil

Casa Branca residence and studio unfolds within a single volume

Casa Branca by NEBR arquitetura is conceived as a combined residence and studio, developed from the intention to integrate living and working within a single spatial framework. The project is located in the Zona da Mata region of Pernambuco, a territory defined by a humid tropical climate and dense vegetation associated with the Atlantic Forest. The design responds to this environmental context while incorporating references to the cultural landscape of Northeast Brazil.

The project originates from the presence of an existing tree on the site, which becomes a central organizing element. The architecture is arranged around this feature, establishing a relationship between built form and natural conditions. The house adopts a compact, prismatic volume with restrained external expression, while internal spaces are configured to allow continuity between indoor and outdoor environments.

Material selection reflects both local references and construction constraints. The use of polished cement flooring, particularly in blue tones, establishes a continuous surface throughout the interior. Walls with a more rustic finish, combined with the integration of vegetation and local crafts, contribute to a layered spatial environment that connects contemporary design approaches with regional practices.

all images by Felipe Petrovsky

NEBR arquitetura’s design balances linear and curved geometries

The construction process functioned as an experimental framework, developed under defined technical and financial limitations. Direct involvement in the building process informed decisions related to detailing, material application, and spatial organization. The project reflects NEBR arquitetura studio’s ongoing exploration of architectural strategies rooted in the conditions of Northeast Brazil.

The name Casa Branca emerged through common usage, referencing the white exterior surfaces of the building. While the external facades present a consistent and neutral appearance, the interior is characterized by a more varied material and color palette, introducing contrast between outer enclosure and internal spatial experience.

Spatially, the house operates through a balance of linear and curved geometries. The primary volume is defined by straight lines, while interior elements introduce curvature to organize circulation and hierarchy. This contrast contributes to a sequence of spaces that emphasize movement and gradual transitions. The project engages with its regional context by positioning architecture as a mediator between environmental conditions, material practices, and contemporary living patterns. Through its integration of natural elements, controlled geometry, and material continuity, Casa Branca presents a residential model that aligns spatial design with climate, landscape, and everyday use.

a combined residence and studio organized within a single volume

the architecture is organized around an existing tree

the tree becomes a central spatial element

indoor and outdoor spaces are visually connected

local crafts contribute to the material palette

textured wall finishes contrast with refined elements

the exterior remains neutral while the interior introduces color

interior lighting glows through the white facade’s perforations

the design connects material, climate, and everyday use

project info:

name: Casa Branca
architect: NEBR arquitetura | @nebr_arquitetura

location: Zona da Mata, Pernambuco, Brazil

photographer: Felipe Petrovsky | @felipe.petrovsky