In Cascais, Portugal, a detached house designed by the Contacto Atlântico architectural practice has been completed. Cobre House, with a floor area of 295 square metres, is an example of contemporary architecture that responds precisely to the site conditions, climate and the needs of everyday life. A compact form, carefully considered orientation and a consistent palette of materials create a design in which functionality and aesthetics reinforce one another.
The house is laid out over three storeys: two above ground and one below ground. The basement houses a two-car garage, as well as technical and storage rooms. These facilities, though out of sight, play a key role in the building’s day-to-day functioning – they ensure the efficient operation of the building services and help keep the living areas tidy.
The ground floor is an open space leading out to the garden. The architects have ensured that the boundary between the interior and exterior is as seamless as possible. The living area (living room, dining room and kitchen) features large glazed areas that bring light and views of the greenery inside. The layout of the rooms is designed for everyday use: movement between spaces is intuitive, and the various functions are logically connected.
The bedrooms are located on the first floor. Each has a recessed balcony, which ensures privacy whilst opening up to the surrounding landscape. This solution allows residents to enjoy natural light whilst protecting the interiors from excessive heat.
Close to the landscape
One of the key elements of the design is the garden, which surrounds the house like a soft, green frame. Subtle changes in level, created using retaining walls and thoughtful landscaping, organise the space and give it a clear structure. A swimming pool has been planned on the south side, which benefits from full sunlight and acts as a natural extension of the living area.
The choice of plants and materials has been guided by durability and low maintenance requirements. Increased soil permeability, a reduction in hard surfaces and the use of natural materials ensure the project meets current standards of responsible building.
Light as the foundation of the design
The materials used in Cobre House enhance the clarity of the architecture. Their selection stems from the logic of the structure – nothing here is merely decorative; everything has a purpose. The subdued colour palette allows the building to blend harmoniously into its surroundings, whilst emphasising its contemporary character.
Natural light plays a leading role in the design. The house’s orientation, the proportions of the openings and the layout of the structure ensure that the interiors are bright yet sheltered from the wind and excessive sunlight. This is architecture that not only looks good but, above all, works – it supports a comfortable lifestyle and creates a pleasant microclimate.
A technical area has been concealed on the roof, designed so as not to disrupt the purity of the composition. This is an example of the attention to detail that characterises the entire project: function is present, but does not dominate form.
A home for years to come
Cobre House is a project in which every element – from the functional layout, through the relationship with the garden, to the choice of materials – forms a coherent whole. The architects at Contacto Atlântico have proposed a modern yet understated house; one that is rooted in its context yet distinctive; comfortable, yet efficient in use.
design: Contacto Atlântico
photo credit: Contacto Atlântico
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