arqui+: casa vale do lobo

‘casa vale do lobo’ by arqui+ arquitectura, algarve, portugal image © FG + SG

nestled within a golf course in southern portugal, the ‘casa vale do lobo’ by portuguese architect vasco vieira of arqui+ adds a new look to the province, epitomized by the elevated swimming pool constantly cascading onto the reflecting pool below. as it borders open public ground, the architect utilized the structure of the residence itself to denote private and common spaces by developing the floor plan into the shape of a ‘U’, with continuous solid outer walls and transparent glazing forming the inner walls. this allows the owner to have privacy from nearby activities while maintaining distance from the general public.

the residence exercises the use of orthogonal volumes creating niche void spaces, simple pure geometries and clean connections which

can be observed at every scale, from the overall formal composition to the detailing of the stairs. materials provide a variety of

textures and help link or separate the different uses. black tiles join the outdoor and indoor pools, wood panels accentuate several

elements and help create a spatial parti. a light black steel structure supports the panes of glass that border the central yard,

and a light gray sandstone floor unites all the components of the edifice with a soft neutral tone.

courtyard image © FG + SG

five bedrooms have been organized over two floors on the northern wing, characterized by predominantly white surfaces in accordance with the vernacular of the algarve region. the opposing section contains the entertainment and service functions: cinema, spa, swimming pool, game room and double garage. linking the two is the communal living area, a mid-level ‘bridge’ with a roof garden easily accessible by both sides, that opens to the central grass courtyard as well as to the lake and golf course on the south end.