Cork Oak House design takes into account the unique qualities of the nature that surrounds

On a large site located in an area of natural protection due to the existence of several cork trees, the design of this house by Hugo Pereira Arquitetos takes into account its relationship with nature, making the surrounding environment an integral part of the house and a key element in the enhancement of its interior spatiality.

Access to the house is via a Portuguese granite road that winds around existing cork trees, ending in the asymmetrical volume of the house entrance. Panoramic views were key decisive elements for construction along with the lightness of the construction, which is accentuated by the surrounding mixture of various trees and shrubs, which have a constant presence within any space of the house.

The exterior of the house is constructed in concrete with the use of traditional pinewood formwork, which lends a texture of scale to the surface. The sloping facades meanwhile convey a continuity of the land with the house. The connection of house to earth is not only present in the building’s siting, but also with the architect’s selection of colours, which makes use of a tonality that highlights the green of the surroundings.  

Interior concrete walls contrast with expansive glass facades that bring in natural light from east to west. Interior spaces are big and bright, with a feature kitchen that opens up to the dining and living room. On the perpendicular there are three suites and on the upper floor a wide and panoramic space.

Floors throughout are finished in a black tile that continues outward to external patios both on the ground level but also on the roof. The dark tint of the paving contrasts with the wood used for the  asymmetrically designed furniture, itself a mirror to the overall asymmetry of the house.

A narrow pool, with salt and crystalline water, is a final key space for the contemplation of the site and its surrounding nature.