Oscar Freire Project

Maíra Acayaba

• Architects

Located in São Paulo’s upscale Jardins neighborhood, the Oscar Freire Project by Conrado Ceravolo Architects revitalizes a 1970s apartment into a modern living space tailored for a family of four. Spanning 200 m², this renovation skillfully blends modern and contemporary design elements with a focus on functionality, seamless space integration, and abundant natural light.
From the moment you enter, the transformation is apparent. The shared social entrance hall is illuminated by a wooden muxarabi, which not only divides the social and service areas but also serves to conceal the building's previously exposed infrastructure. A large mirror further enhances the sense of space, making the area feel larger and more open.

photo_credit Maíra Acayaba — Maíra Acayaba

A standout feature of the project is its ceiling design, which combines two distinct levels to create a sense of fluid movement and grandeur. The first level, crafted from white plaster, defines the circulation path and subtly integrates air conditioning with indirect lighting. The second level, in exposed concrete, differentiates the two planes and adds visual interest.
The living room is anchored by an impressive tubular iron bookshelf that frames the TV and ecological fireplace. Adjacent to this area is the dining room, which benefits from a large mirror that visually expands the space. A floating buffet, positioned strategically against the wall, adds a touch of lightness and elegance.

The kitchen is envisioned as an extension of the social areas, enhancing the home's functionality and flow. It features two blocks of American oak: one for kitchen appliances and the other for hiding the pantry and a service corridor door. When closed, the 4-meter sliding door unites these blocks, allowing for practical separation between the kitchen and the common areas when needed.
To maintain the living room's refined aesthetic, a tubular iron display shelf was installed to cover the old kitchen window. The addition of blue tiles complements the Creme chairs at the floating island, breaking up the apartment's otherwise neutral palette.

Furniture selection was a key aspect of the design, with pieces chosen for both comfort and style. Notable items include colorful armchairs, a pendant light from Lumini, sofas by Carbono Design, a table from Estúdio Bola, and dining chairs from Novo Ambiente. The Touché Super Blanco stone, used on kitchen surfaces, is also featured in other areas, such as the ecological fireplace, showcasing its versatility.
The apartment benefits from natural light through its extensive windows, a common feature of 1970s buildings that reduces the need for artificial lighting. The renovation optimized the original layout to better suit modern family life, converting the former service dormitory into a functional home office and adding a second TV room for family gatherings.

In the children’s room, beds are designed to accommodate up to five people, with a combination of a standard bed, a trundle bed, and a mezzanine area for play or overnight guests. The room doubles as a playroom with playful decorations and toys.

Access to the master suite involves passing through a T-shaped closet. One end leads to the bedroom, with custom joinery extending to the wardrobes, while the other end connects to the bathroom. The closet and bathroom are separated by doors that blend seamlessly into the joinery. The bathroom door also functions as a mirror, complementing the closet’s design.

The bedroom’s joinery features walnut wood accents, carried over from the couple's previous furnishings. This wood is used for the wardrobes and the shelf next to the TV, adding warmth and breaking up the extensive white surfaces. A Burle Marx artwork completes the room’s decor.
In the master bathroom, varying shades of gray create a sophisticated and neutral environment. The renovation removed barriers from the old fragmented layout, resulting in a more spacious and fluid design.