AEA House

Fernando Guerra

• Architects

Surrounded by a dense forest in Rio de Janeiro's Atlantic Forest, this summer
retreat opens out to the sea of Angra dos Reis and some of its 365 islands in the
archipelago, considered one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. It was in
this region that, decades ago, Paulo Jacobsen began working with wooden
structures. Initially motivated by the easiness in which this material could be
transported through coastal waters, wood is nowadays one of the major design
hallmarks of his practice. Therefore, it is amidst this abundant nature that the AEA
House lightly touches the ground and incorporates the topography. Respecting the
location of a previously existing house, this project sought to use natural elements
that could create an architectural space in tune with the surroundings.

photo_credit Fernando Guerra — Fernando Guerra

The house can be accessed in two diJerent ways: by boat, via the pier, or through a
winding mountain road that leads to the entrance of the house, at the highest level
on the plot, where a garden full of native species welcomes the visitor. Upon
entering the residence, a small rock appears in the middle of the wooden floor,
being surrounded as if it were part of it. When descending the stairs to the lower
floor, its real size is revealed, spanning the entire ceiling height. It is also at this
level that the view opens up completely to the sea, blurring the lines between the
built and the natural spaces.

The entire project was structurally designed as a mix of metal, concrete and
laminated wood, with each element carefully adapted to the surrounding nature.

The social program takes place on the lower floor, where the living room, gourmet
area, dining room and kitchen are located. On the other side, around the large
stone and a reflecting pool, are located the home theater, playroom and gym.
Above are the suites, where muxarabis panels made from oxidized wood were used
for sun protection on the façade. Their grayish tone is a reference to wooden trunks
found on the beach, which, due to salt, sand and sun, lose their color over the
years. A long bench surrounds the entire balcony of the rooms, also serving as
protection.

From the bedrooms’ balcony the garden below can be seen. The pool, organically
shaped, visually transitions the straight lines of the architecture to the free
movement of the ocean. Carefully crafted landscaping connects the wild forest to
the lawn. Two natural elements limit the sides of the house: on one side, a large
rock, even larger than the one inside, lightly touches the building, while, on the
other, a huge old tree provides shade to those relaxing near the pool.