Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
Cobre House
Gonçalo Henriques

Cobre House

Cobre House is a single-family residence located in Cascais, representing a clear expression of contemporary architecture in Portugal. Set on a 608 m² plot, the project adopts a compact volumetric approach to maximise privacy and natural light, while carefully responding to the site’s existing topography.

The design establishes clear and intuitive connections between the house and the garden, reinforcing a coherent and functional living environment aligned with the principles of high-end architecture.

photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

The house is organised over two floors above ground and one basement level. The basement accommodates a garage for two vehicles, along with storage and technical areas, ensuring operational efficiency. On the ground floor, living spaces open directly to the exterior, promoting continuity and fluidity between interior and outdoor areas. The upper floor is dedicated to bedrooms, which benefit from recessed balconies and a direct relationship with the surrounding landscape. This spatial organisation supports a lifestyle defined by simplicity, comfort, and clarity.

photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

Spatial Design, Materiality and Landscape
The project integrates a continuous garden and a south-facing swimming pool, structured through subtle level changes defined by retaining walls and landscape design strategies. These elements contribute to a balanced and protected outdoor environment, enhancing usability while maintaining visual coherence. The selection of vegetation and materials is guided by durability and low maintenance, ensuring long-term performance and increasing soil permeability.

photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

Materiality plays a key role in reinforcing the architectural identity of Cobre House. The choice of finishes remains consistent with the construction logic, supporting both durability and a clear reading of the built form. The restrained palette enhances the relationship between architecture and landscape, allowing the house to integrate naturally into its context.

photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

Natural light is a defining component of the project, shaping both interior and exterior spaces. The orientation and volumetric configuration ensure bright, sheltered environments, protected from prevailing winds and closely connected to the outdoors.
The roof incorporates a discreet technical area with minimal visual impact, preserving the clarity of the architectural composition. This integration reflects a precise and thoughtful design approach, where functional requirements are resolved without compromising form.

photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

 

The relationship between architecture and landscape is central to the project, creating a seamless transition between built and natural environments. Every design decision contributes to a cohesive spatial experience focused on comfort, efficiency, and long-term value.

As part of Contacto Atlântico’s portfolio, Cobre House combines architectural clarity, contextual sensitivity, and performance.

Caption
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques
photo_credit Gonçalo Henriques
Gonçalo Henriques

 

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