Lagoa Apartment

Gustavo Bresciani

• Architects

In a bold and challenging collaborative project, architects Marcela Fazio, Natacha Alves, and Beatriz Slaibi joined forces to redesign a 1970s original apartment into a contemporary family residence, marked by refinement and comfort.

Challenged by the need to accommodate a large family, consisting of a couple and their four children, the architects undertook the mission to create five suites, significantly expanding the livable space of the original apartment, which had only two suites and two bedrooms.

photo_credit Gustavo Bresciani — Gustavo Bresciani

The collaborative program transcended geographical boundaries, with Natacha and Beatriz, architects from Rio de Janeiro, working in Rio and Marcela in her studio in São Paulo.

The creation process involved in-person and online meetings, as well as exchanges of sketches that resulted in a cohesive and innovative vision for the residence.

Preserving the original peroba do campo wood floor, meticulously restored, contrasts with the contemporary touch introduced by the exclusive hydraulic tile (Ladrilar) used in the kitchen. High-quality finishes, such as Portobello porcelain tiles, and strategically integrated wooden elements in panels and closures, give a unique aesthetic to the ensemble.

"In this incredible architectural project, we can highlight a fascinating characteristic: the clear connection with the initial idea is easily perceptible. Some spaces were carefully shaped, faithfully reproducing the creative sketches. This achievement highlights attention to detail and fidelity to architectural design,” as explained by Marcela, one of the project's authors.

The challenge of adapting the bathroom of the room adjoining the living area proved to be the most complex task during the construction, requiring creative adjustments due to the surprising discovery of gas risers and plumbing pipes.

Overcoming these challenges underscores the skill and expertise of the architects involved.

The crown jewel of the Rio de Janeiro apartment is undoubtedly the spacious living room with a panoramic view of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, providing residents with a cozy atmosphere for moments of relaxation.

The private spaces, well-equipped suites, and renovated bathrooms stand out for their attention to detail and commitment to the comfort of the owners. Only two suites maintained the original layout, while the master suite was endowed with a functional and elegant closet.

The other bedrooms were strategically repositioned, gaining new bathrooms. The living room was expanded, the kitchen and laundry room underwent a complete remodel, and all the frames were replaced, providing a unique experience without interruption of the stunning external landscape.

The lighting design plays a fundamental role in the well-being of the residents, providing an immersive and tailored atmosphere.

Renowned brands such as Todeschini, Ladrilar, Marmoraria Royal, Portobello, Breton, Lider Interiores, Fernando Jaeger, Way Design, Lumini, and Dimlux were essential partners in this journey, contributing with their high-quality products and sophisticated design.

The new shape of the apartment not only met the demands of the family but also significantly enhanced the program, making it a true architectural gem in one of the most coveted square meters of the Marvelous City.

As one of the owners jokes: "The architects took a rough stone and carved it into a diamond." Anyone doubt it?