The Laranjeiras apartment, built in the 80's and therefore outdated for today's needs, was completely redesigned and transformed into a spacious, functional and naturally lit place.
The conventional character of the apartments from that period gave way to more inviting and practical spaces, with integrated and multipurpose environments such as the unified living and dining rooms. The kitchen, formerly in a corridor shape, is now much larger and spacious, since the former maid's room and respective service bathroom were merged into the kitchen.
In the social area, along with the large living and dining rooms, two small corners were also designed: an office which can be closed in order to create some privacy, and a space for the piano, protected by small pillars. These two niches take advantage from the existing structural configuration which could not be changed.
At the entrance of the corridor, that gives access to the bedrooms, a black volume stands out, concealing the guest toilet; an unusual body for its size as well as for the contrasting effect with the uninterrupted whiteness of walls and ceilings.
The bathrooms were partially intervened to maximize its space and give rise to a new visual organization and materials. Estremoz white marble stone seemed to be the best option, since it is easy to maintain, resistant and durable.
It was possible to take advantage of the surprisingly high ceilings, hidden until then by existing false ceilings, thanks to the design of pyramidal ceilings where high light boxes were placed, gaining both greatness and ampleness.
Team:
Responsible Architects: João Tiago Aguiar
Project team: Susana Luis, Rúben Mateus, João Nery Morais, Maria Sousa Otto, Arianna Camozzi, Samanta Cardoso de Menezes, Diogo Romão, Constança Lino, Francisco Duarte, Nuno Sequeira, Maria Reis, Francisco Barosa, Renata Vieira.
Builder: OFICINA DOS SONHOS
Material Used:
1. CIN: Paints
2. Padimat: Sanitary equipment & taps
3. U-DECK: Oak wood floor
4. Mauro: Carpentry
5. Bernardes & Filho: Stones
6. Climar: Lighting
7. Francometal: Window frames
Software Used:
Microsoft: Excel
Microsoft: Word