The existing

Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the old residence occupied the entire frontage of the plot, from which one accesses the courtyard.

The plot is deep and has a pronounced slope, structured in terraces supported by high granite walls. Access to these terraces is via various flights of stairs aligned along the southern boundary wall.

The house, which had been vacant for several years and was in an advanced state of degradation, seemed to have been built in several phases, the last being an extension over the adjacent slope. This extension, which is no longer in good condition, was the only part of the house whose rooms were connected to what was once a garden.

The original building, which had four floors (including a small attic), featured a central staircase illuminated by a large skylight resting on a vault decorated with vegetal motifs in molded plaster.

The project

In the existing building, the facade and the stairs leading to the upper floors are restored to their original appearance. In the remaining areas of the old residence, apartments are organized that, in a contemporary visual language, will meet the comfort standards required today. However, the period aspects and details that add value to them will be preserved and highlighted.

The top floor, although set back as it was, is expanded to house a bright apartment with a wide visual horizon.

In the courtyard, but connected to the old building, a new three-story volume is built, whose construction area will complement that of the existing building.

The layout and internal organization of the added structure were articulated with the space left by the complete removal of an existing slope, near the original house.

The removal of the slope provides relief to the rear facade of the old house and, on the other hand, provides good solar exposure to the apartments of the new construction. The new land retention is achieved through a stepped gabion wall.

With this solution, the aim is to enhance the visual impact of the resulting garden surroundings. The area of the new volume built complements the pre-existing area, resulting in two two-bedroom apartments on the ground and first floors.

The second floor is designated for an apartment that will be distributed between the old building and the new construction.

This apartment will be accessed from the existing building. However, this apartment will have exclusive access and use of the adjacent landscaped platform. The remaining landscaped platforms will be accessible and for common use by all residents.

Conclusion

The rehabilitation and expansion in Bonjardim aim not only to create 8 residential units (intended for housing and local accommodation) but also to implement sustainable practices that allow for reduced levels of non-renewable energy consumption, without compromising the comfort of the residents.

This project seeks to reconcile the preservation of historical heritage with the demands of contemporary life.