the wave house resembles a vessel sailing through rio de janeiro's waters

Mareines Arquitetura’s wave house in Rio de Janeiro

Wave House, crafted by Mareines Arquitetura, sits atop the Tijucas Islands in Rio de Janeiro, elevated 65 meters above sea level on a rugged granite monolith. Its positioning offers exclusive vistas of the sea and sky, enjoying the ambient sounds of nature. Taking cues from the movement of waves, the roof design mimics their fluidity, thus earning its name. Constructed with pine shingles and curved eucalyptus laminated wood beams, supported by circular galvanized steel pillars, the house takes on a shape reminiscent of a vessel traversing the open waters. Given the narrow plot and towering perimeter walls, the design extends horizontally, creating openings for access and views of the sea.

images by Leonardo Finotti and Jacques Paul Barthelemy (drone)

stepping into the ship-like House

The house comprises four floors, accessible via stairs or a hydraulic glass piston elevator. The first floor, serving as the main access level, includes the laundry area, kitchen, and living and dining rooms. On the floor above, there are staff quarters, a guest bedroom, and a TV room. The lower level provides direct access to nature, featuring a winding infinity pool separating the sea from the landscaped garden, along with an acerola tree and vertical garden. Additionally, this level houses a lounge with a gourmet area, bar, sauna, and changing room. Descending to the final floor, an intimate space accommodates three suites, a family room, and a playroom.

the roof is made of curved eucalyptus wood beams with pine shingles, held up by circular steel pillars

the house’s shape resembles a ship that cuts through the waves

a winding infinity pool separates the sea from the landscaped garden

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project info:

name: Wave House

architecture: Mareines Arquitetura | @mareinesarquitetura

location: Rio de Janeiro

year: 2016

total area: 1.000 sqm

photography: Leonardo Finotti and Jacques Paul Barthelemy (drone)