Residence at Alto de Pinheiros uses a structural grid of reclined wood as an integrating element of the common areas, respecting the vegetation and the existing trees on the site.
Perkins + Will has been hired by a family from São Paulo to build their new residence, located at Alto de Pinheiros; a traditional and predominantly residential district of São Paulo, Brazil. The site, with approximately 1,000 square meters, has been acquired by customers due to its natural characteristics; about 50% of it was occupied by a generous garden, including an imposing Flamboyant. Therefore, respect for the existing conditions on the site would become a great challenge in this project.
Flamboyant Tree as the Main Design Character
The first initiative was to understand the characteristics present, rather than any definition of a party. It has been decided to claim the Flamboyant as the main character, making all other solutions were thought and modeled according to their characteristics. Located on the eastern corner of the terrain, the Flamboyant has been digitally scanned, including its branches, thus being able to set constructive guidelines without threatening its well-being.
The Structural Wooden Grid Connects Living/Dining Room and Gourmet Balcony
Once defined the protagonist, it should be visible by all; according to this principle, the living/dining room and gourmet balcony (common and reception areas) should be closely linked to it. These areas were covered by a structural wooden grid (developed together with the structural engineer Hélio Olga) that intertwines them and connects the garden from the bottom of the terrain to the street, which is the most striking architectural element. The design of this structure was only possible thanks to the three-dimensional mapping of the beginning of the process, therefore the dimensions and heights of the grid were defined to reduce the impact on the landscape to the maximum.
Other aspects of the residence include:
Lighting that dramatizes the landscaping;
Glass coatings facilitate the connection between the internal and external areas of the residence;
The upper patio overlooking the garden;
The gourmet kitchen in the middle of the living room, 100% integrated to the main environments of the house and the garden;
The program requested for this residence includes:
Living / Dining Room and Gourmet Balcony
Kitchen and Breakfast Room
Intimate Room, Office, and Exercise Room
Six suites, four of them for the children,
Subsoil with a vacancy for several cars, service area, warehouses, technical area, and dormitories of employees;
Perkins + Will is proud of the result of this work, with an architecture that respects and preserves the natural conditions of the place, contributing to a more gentle environment for the residents and their guests.
Photographs: Nelson Kon
For more design ideas, you are welcome to follow Archi-living.com on social media.
Feng Shui Meets Interior Design – Five Elements in Space – Find Out More
Architecture Project – the Mirante House in Brazil – Discover More
