Framing in place
The house to be rehabilitated and expanded is located on a large wooded plot, sloping to the south, with good solar exposure and great privacy. The topography places it in front of a lush and unobstructed landscape, typical of the Serra do Gerês environment.
The pre-existence
The existing house, built before the 20th century, has a rectangular layout defined by peripheral structural walls made of local granite blocks, of great thickness. It has two superimposed floors, which were originally assigned different functions. The upper floor was intended for a small dwelling. The lower floor was designated for the grape press, storage of tools, and animal pens. The openings to the outside, doors and windows, are narrow and scarce. The same applies to the available areas to accommodate the desired functional program; they are insufficient.
The architecture project
The expansion of the functional program, preparation and dining area, living room, and two independent bedrooms, made the existing covered area insufficient. Therefore, a volume is added to the existing building, intended to house the living space of the house, dedicated to allowing the enjoyment of the trees and the vast surrounding landscape.
The upper floor of the old house was entrusted with the new bedrooms. The lower floor was designated for the dining room and kitchen, illuminated by a large opening on the south facade and by a "zenithal light well" above the meal preparation counter.
The access to the house from the public path was designed to guide the arrival to the building without invading the privacy of the outdoor spaces adjacent to the rooms. These are thought of and treated as an extension of the rooms.
