The comprehensive renovation of the 350 sqm residence reorganizes shared spaces, redefines the original volumes and introduces a generous veranda with a 9.70-meter clear span, bringing the interiors closer to the landscape
In São Paulo, Casa TC01 underwent a complete renovation by Alexandre Dal Fabbro to meet the needs of a couple and their two children. Set on a 500 sqm plot, with 350 sqm of built area, the residence presented the challenge of transforming an older building into a more open, functional home with a stronger connection to its outdoor spaces. The project emerged from two central wishes: to expand the areas for family life, particularly those dedicated to dining, and to make the garden part of everyday life, with greenery visible from inside the house.
The intervention involved a complete renewal of the electrical and plumbing systems, structural adaptations and a new spatial arrangement. Large openings now connect the living areas to the outdoors, while a newly created veranda, absent from the original house, expands the possibilities for gathering. The exterior architecture was also redesigned with a more understated expression, allowing the landscape to take center stage.
Redefining the house’s volumes
One of the most significant changes was made to the façade. The original exposed roof was concealed by raising the exterior wall planes, producing a cleaner, more unified composition. The restrained architectural language was intended to establish a balanced relationship with the garden, highlighting the forms and textures of the planting.
Creating large openings was another defining move. Previously more detached from the outdoor areas, the interiors now enjoy visual connections to the garden, allowing the landscape to become part of the spatial experience. This new configuration also encourages natural light to enter and strengthens the continuity between architecture and the outdoors.
Transforming the existing structure called for specific technical solutions. In the living room, changes in ceiling height caused by structural beams and the bathrooms above made a completely level ceiling impractical. The design therefore reconciled these conditions while preserving a comfortable room height. In the kitchen, connecting the space to the dining room required a steel reinforcement to replace a load-bearing masonry wall.
Spaces designed for family life
The ground-floor layout was reorganized to bring the family together and accommodate a range of activities. The 56.30 sqm living room was conceived as a generous, flexible space, while the kitchen and dining room were integrated to become a central part of daily family life.
In the kitchen, Carrara marble countertops are paired with ivorywood cabinetry and engineered wood flooring. The material selection reflects the intention to create a functional space that also feels visually connected to the social areas, without needing to be separated from the rest of the home.
The living room features a palette of light, neutral tones, with wood providing a sense of continuity. Softly colored fabrics establish the base of the interiors, punctuated by color in decorative objects and the upholstery of the gaming chair. A custom upholstered bench designed by Alexandre Dal Fabbro is among the pieces created specifically for the residence.
Beyond the main living spaces, the ground floor includes a home office, sewing studio, laundry room and service areas. The layout brings together the family’s daily activities and spaces dedicated to leisure and social gatherings.
The veranda as an extension of the home
The creation of the outdoor dining veranda was one of the project’s most significant interventions. Measuring 41.60 sqm, the new space provides a transition between the house and the garden, expanding the shared living area and offering a setting for meals and gatherings outdoors.
To preserve uninterrupted views of the greenery, the structure was designed with a 9.70-meter clear span, without visible columns facing the garden. This solution required structural adjustments and allowed the veranda to maintain a direct visual relationship with the landscape.
The exterior materials reinforce this continuity. Terracor textured finishes define the architectural surfaces, while rustic granite is used for the flooring and the outdoor kitchen island. The natural character of these finishes creates a neutral backdrop in dialogue with both the planting and the interior materials.
A garden at the heart of the project
At 116 sqm, the garden is central to the architectural concept. Designed by Bia Abreu, the landscape was conceived not merely as a visual composition, but as a place for everyday use and relaxation.
Hammocks, a swing and a fire pit offer different ways to inhabit the outdoor space, combining opportunities for rest, contemplation and gathering. Among the highlights are hammocks by Nani Chinellato, incorporated into the landscape design.
Asymmetrically arranged stepping stones in rustic granite cross the lawn, while the walls feature the same Terracor texture used on the veranda. Repeating these materials creates a sense of unity across the outdoor areas.
The relationship with greenery extends to the upper floor, where a terrace accommodates a vegetable garden and fruit trees. Together, these spaces broaden the presence of planting throughout the home and reinforce the family’s connection to outdoor living.
Materials and preservation in the interiors
Although the renovation transformed much of the residence, selected original features were retained. In the four upstairs bedrooms, the original wood parquet floors were restored and incorporated into the new interiors. The skylit stairwell and the natural overhead lighting in one bathroom were also preserved.
Because the bedrooms have similar sizes and layouts, the design introduces individual character through different headboards, textiles and bedside tables. Natural linen appears on the walls and in cabinetry details, establishing a palette of soft tones and tactile materials.
The finishes bring together wood, marble, terrazzo and textured surfaces. Terrazzo gives the bathrooms a distinct material identity, while wood cabinetry and flooring create visual continuity throughout the interiors.
The furniture selection complements the architecture with contemporary pieces and elements designed specifically for the house. A pendant light by Jader Almeida completes the dining room.
Casa TC01 represents a renovation that goes beyond an aesthetic update. By adapting the existing structure, reorganizing the interior and redefining the relationship between building and garden, Alexandre Dal Fabbro has transformed an older residence into a home centered on shared living, where architecture, interiors and landscape function as an integrated whole.
