The House on the Walls is a dwelling constructed on a lengthy plot with dual fronts. Spanning fifteen meters, the project was conceived to detach from the plot's lateral boundaries. Its design revolves around a central volume elongated in shape, resting upon the adjacent walls and the perimeter walls facing the two streets. This arrangement creates an alternation between the configuration of interior spaces and voids ensuring ample illumination and ventilation throughout the residence. This spatial configuration gives rise to significant features within the house, including interior courtyards and terraces, indispensable for comfortable habitation.

 

The relationship with the walls delineates a hierarchical arrangement of spaces across various levels: towards the southwest, a partially submerged garage is situated on a semi-underground level, alongside the main entrance accessed via a staircase leading to the first floor. On this floor, the social programme of the house is organised, with a large living room that swings out and rests on the wall of the main façade, a toilet, a kitchen and a patio that creates a new living space in its extension. This patio also serves as an additional entrance from the northeastern street. Positioned centrally on this floor is a new volume facilitating vertical circulation to the second floor. Here there are three bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom, an office and a shared bathroom. Adjacent to the eastern side lies a small terrace, while a southwest-facing balcony adjoins the master bedroom.

 

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Location. Chã de Marinha, São Vicente, Cape Verd

Date. 2011 | 2020

Architecture. Ângelo Lopes

Photography.  Ângelo Lopes and Rita Rainho