Implementation solutions for the two towers, such as setbacks from the pavement and suspended volumes for common areas, optimise the use of the more than 3,000 square meters of land 

Montelena, a new high-end development designed by Königsberger Vannucchi for TARRAF, has been built in one of the most prestigious areas of São José do Rio Preto, in the interior of São Paulo. Situated in towers set back from the alignment of the plot, the residential project faced challenges that included analysing the terrain to ensure shading for the flats and panoramic views of the southern part of the city. 

"The positioning of the buildings, offset from each other and oriented towards the São José do Rio Preto skyline, creates two distinct and high-quality spaces," says Alexandre Daud, Associate Director of Königsberger Vannucchi. "The first corresponds to the  front boulevard, which is generous and open to the city, while the second corresponds to the leisure areas, subtly separated by the gradient between them, thereby eliminating the need for any kind of wall in the project," he adds. 

Two towers were proposed: Rubra (with two units per floor) and Áurea (with one per floor), which aesthetically design the façade in an original way, featuring a fluid and geometric design and connected by a mezzanine. 

Spanning a plot of 3,150,000 square meters, Montelena comprises 33 residential units with four suites, ranging from 256 to 343 square meters. With façades featuring exposed glazing surrounding the social areas, all the flats enjoy abundant light and natural cross-ventilation. 

The architectural design of the terraces not only shields the bedrooms and living room from the sun but also introduces elements typical of single-family homes, such as backyards, into the flats. "In addition to shading the building, the terraces create a dynamic façade that changes with each viewpoint, engaging the observer's path," says Daud.

Featuring one service centre per floor, the units boast an intimate circulation system that allows one to access the kitchen from the bedrooms without having to traverse social spaces such as the living room. 

The strategic layout fully maximizes the Montelena site. Leisure facilities are situated above the ground floor, with a mezzanine leading to an uncovered slab on the same level. On the ground floor, serving as an interface between the street and the development, is the double-height lobby that connects the two towers via an inviting entrance.

The pursuit of the comfort offered by a five-star hotel, coupled with the privacy of residences, is evident in the layout itself, which addresses flow and security concerns without relying on railings. A spa room, stone beach, and sauna enhance the residents' experience. As a special feature, the residence is equipped with infrastructure for charging electric cars. 

Team:
Architecture: Königsberger Vannucchi 
Development and Construccion: TARRAF 
Interior Design: S. C. Arquitetura e Design  
Landscape design: Luciano Fiaschi Arquitetura Paisagística  
Photography: Pedro Vannucchi