The essence of this intervention lies in the creation of a permanent residence through a sensitive and deliberate approach to what should be preserved and what should be demolished, in order to achieve a balanced solution that addresses both urban integration and the requalification of the block as a whole - considering factors such as salubrity, the evolving standards of habitability, and the quality of outdoor spaces.

The aim is to adapt the built structures to the current needs and specificities of the inhabitants, transforming their programmatic and constructive nature to meet contemporary expectations of comfort and use.

The core challenges of this project rest on two key principles: the desire to explore residential possibilities within an urban context. The goal is to generate a contemporary architectural response that resonates with the surrounding urban, architectural, and environmental fabric of the area and the built ensemble it belongs to.

Located on a generous plot in Paço de Arcos, Oeiras - with unobstructed ocean views and the presence of centuries-old trees - this project responds to the dual challenge of creating a new home for a growing family and requalifying an existing construction to serve as a guest and service house.

The landscape is structured in two distinct levels: the lower garden, oriented toward the ocean, is designed for contemplation and connection with the sea; the upper garden, more secluded and expansive, hosts an outdoor pool and a pavilion with an open kitchen and support facilities. This spatial strategy reinforces the project’s intent to articulate moments of openness and privacy across the site.

The existing secundary construction is respectfully stripped back and depurated to accommodate guest quarters and staff functions with an updated, discreet elegance.

The new construction - the main house - unfolds over three levels:

— Ground floor: a large garage and a suite of utility and wellness spaces including an indoor pool, sauna, and gym.

— Main floor: fully connected to the upper garden and opening toward the ocean via a deep balcony, it contains all social areas - living and dining room, a wine cellar, a generous kitchen, three ensuite bedrooms and a playroom.

— Upper floor: reserved for the primary bedroom, it includes two bathrooms, an open walk-in closet, a home office, and a private balcony with panoramic sea views. The remaining rooftop area is used as a private garden, creating a green roof that merges architecture with landscape and, at the same time, retaining water from rain and acting as thermal insulation.

An elliptical open staircase connects the social and upper floors, while an elevator serves all three levels, ensuring both fluidity and accessibility throughout the home.

Materiality is central to the project’s identity. White concrete, Lioz limestone, and wood are used in a restrained palette that highlights texture and craftsmanship while ensuring long-term durability and comfort. Floor-to-ceiling openings are carefully placed to frame the landscape, while external wooden partitions filter light and views - blurring the thresholds between interior and exterior, and fostering a continuous dialogue with the natural surroundings.

The result is a refined and grounded architectural composition, rooted in place and tailored to contemporary family life.