Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
MW Apartment
Fran Parente

MW Apartment

The sea view is the central element of this apartment, located in an iconic building designed by architect Gil Borsoi – a key figure in the dissemination of modern architecture in the Brazilian Northeast.

photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente
Caption

With a volumetric design full of movement and prominent beams, the main challenge of the project was to create a comfortable ceiling height while allowing integration of the social areas. The solution was to embrace the exposed beams and, based on the position of the structural columns, frame them with custom millwork. The social spaces were laid out in a wide and continuous flow, separated from the private and service areas, giving the apartment a sense of accessible and functional circulation.

photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente
photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente

In response to the briefing from the owners – a couple living in the apartment with one of their daughters – the private area includes two suites and a master suite, which features two walk-in closets and two interconnected bathrooms. The office was specially designed to house an extensive photography collection. The service area includes a kitchen and a dedicated breakfast space – a specific request from the clients, who enjoy gathering at this time of day. In the social area, the living room, dining room, and terrace are integrated and framed by continuous lateral landscaping to ensure privacy.

photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente
Caption

Given the proximity to the sea and the warm climate, cool and salt-resistant materials were selected, most notably a single flooring material used throughout the apartment, reinforcing the sense of fluidity. The social area walls were treated with a cement-like paint finish, mimicking the texture of the exposed concrete beams and columns, in contrast with a cinnamon wood panel that stretches from the apartment’s entrance to the gourmet area, featuring a bench that runs wall to wall.

photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente
photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente

From the beginning, special attention was given to the lighting design by Maneco Quinderé. His solution focused on using table lamps and warm-toned LEDs embedded in the woodwork, creating a cozy and natural atmosphere. The textures of fabrics, rugs, and blinds are warm to enhance the feeling of comfort. Among the furniture are pieces by renowned designers such as Ricardo Fasanello, as well as items designed by Arthur Casas himself – including the Ela and Fusca sofas, the Breaco lamp, and the Max chair. A special highlight goes to the magnificent collection of local folk art, featuring works by Nicola, Jean, Veríssimo, Dona Irineia, among others.

photo_credit Fran Parente
Fran Parente
Caption
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