The complex in Ribeira de Calhau is a family project with a rural/cultural tourism slant. The space was designed so that it could be shared with family and clients/friends, both in their presence and in their absence. In other words, it had to allow for both an autonomous family community and community tourism. In addition, the process had to be designed in a modular way, so that the investment could be built in phases.

 

In general terms, the program includes some rooms that can be rented out, with a living/kitchenette area, bathroom and bedroom; two family structures with a bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom for the two investors in the project; and the general support structures for the complex - living room, reception, kitchen, laundry, storage, etc.

 

The rental room program has been organized into two levels, the more public one on the ground floor and the private, dormitory space reserved for the mezzanine that takes advantage of the design of the roofs to conform. The family structures follow the same principle, although with more living space and an independent bedroom on the ground floor. The support structures respond to a basic program for the operation of the complex and the kitchen is the most generous space, since it has been considered as a training/workshop space related to gastronomy, organic farming, food design and other associated cultural dynamics.

Each suite was designed autonomously, the rooms so that clients could enjoy the complex without depending on the general support spaces, the family structures so that the owners could have their own private space. The general support structures have a different dynamic, facing the whole complex.

 

In volumetric terms, the choice of fragmentation along the plot made it possible to contain some of the density of the complex and extend the program closer to the outer edge of the plot, thus forming an interior living space, planned for a community garden, linked to the principles of organic farming. The interior space of the plot is thus designed with controlled permeability between the complex and its surroundings. The fruit trees between the houses reinforce this idea and make it possible to create shaded spaces between them where people can stay. The complex is also complemented by a pond for bathing and watering the garden, as well as a windmill for pumping water from the well into the pond.

 

In terms of construction, local stone was chosen as the main element. Wood as an element for roof structures, tiles (chips), gables and carpentry. These materials emphasize simplicity in harmony with their context. The construction processes follow the same principles mentioned above.

 

Location. Ribeira de Calhau, São Vicente

Date. 2011

Architect. Ângelo Lopes

Phase. Preliminary Study