Located in São Paulo, Brazil, this former 1960s residence underwent a full renovation that restored the essence of the original architecture while introducing modernity, functionality, and warmth. Designed by architect Samia Sarayedine Testa, the project centers on family well-being and on creating a welcoming environment for hosting friends and relatives.
With 250 m² of built area on a 479 m² plot, the house had been leased for many years. When the owners finally took possession, the main challenge was to completely revitalize the property and transform it into a serene urban retreat in the heart of São Paulo.
The renovation focused on opening and connecting the spaces to promote fluidity, comfort, and practicality. Drawing on a contemporary Brazilian aesthetic with a refined sensibility, the design honors the home’s original character while fulfilling the couple’s desire for more quality of life. One of the highlights is the detached annex, which was reconfigured into an independent apartment for the couple’s son and daughter-in-law, who live abroad.
In the social area, large glass panels bring abundant natural light indoors, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and connection to the exterior. The layout was fully reconfigured to ensure seamless integration between the living spaces, with expanded openings and sliding doors. Furnishings by iconic Brazilian designers such as Sérgio Rodrigues, Jorge Zalszupin, and Jader Almeida help articulate the interior identity, while artworks by Ianelli and Burle Marx add an important cultural layer to the project.
Throughout the house, lighting and audio systems are fully automated and can be controlled in each room or remotely via iPhone, iPad, or the system interface. The lighting design was developed from the interior layout, combining indirect recessed lighting, illuminated curtain coves, table lamps and pendants — allowing for different scenes through independent circuits. All rooms also feature moisture-resistant solar screen curtains.
The entrance hall features custom-designed wooden walls, ceiling, and door. Satin-finished porcelain flooring resembling travertine marble extends across the entire home, adding cohesion and elegance. Signature pieces, such as the Gelsomina table by Luciano Deviá, the Arco floor lamp by Achille Castiglioni, and the Onda 230 bench by Jorge Zalszupin, complement a piano from the client’s personal collection.
In the living room, Tetê armchairs by Sérgio Rodrigues — upholstered in two shades of green suede — pair with the Raiz coffee table by Jader Almeida. The artwork Pincel, from the original collection of Arcangelo Ianelli and gifted to the clients by the painter’s daughter, is displayed inside an acrylic case, alongside original watercolors by the artist. Bathed in natural light, the room enhances the sense of well-being through a harmonized mix of textures, colors, and materials.
In the dining room, a full-wall mirror expands and links the spaces, highlighting the dining set by Jader Almeida and the ELO pendant by Ana Neute. The kitchen presented a specific challenge from the clients: integrating all desired appliances into a functional and visually cohesive space. Custom cabinetry incorporates smart solutions — including the integration of the home area into the kitchen — while ergonomic furniture ensures comfort.
The master suite offers a spacious, calming environment, with a super king-size bed, a boucle-upholstered headboard, and lacquered nightstands. The walk-in closet features sliding glass doors with a silk-screen finish, mirrored panels, and an off-white lacquered island. A natural fiber rug and soft mini recessed lighting create a cozy atmosphere, while Italian watercolors add an artistic touch. The couple’s home office includes a custom-designed desk, a leather Herman Miller chair, sliding glass-door cabinets, and an illuminated wooden niche.
A lacquered slatted panel separates the office from the master bathroom, concealing the door. The bathroom features uniform porcelain surfaces across floors, walls, niches, and vanities with sculpted sinks, creating a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. The neutral palette and underfloor heating add comfort and sophistication.
The outdoor area was completely redesigned and integrated with the kitchen, dining, and living spaces through expansive sliding doors, creating an ideal setting for family gatherings. Blue-toned furnishings and lush landscaping bring a sense of tranquility, transforming the area into a relaxing leisure space. The gourmet veranda includes natural fiber armchairs with waterproof upholstery, wooden side tables, and thermal flooring from Castelatto’s line, which reduces heat absorption. The swimming pool was re-waterproofed, received new ceramic cladding, and was equipped with a counter-current system — rounding out the leisure area with a barbecue, sauna, and other amenities.
