House in Aldeia de Juso

Although the garden is something of a commonplace, the questions of the "boundary" and the "enclosure" are, in this case, particularly pertinent.

In designing this small house on the outskirts of Aldeia de Juso, the very limited size of the plot, together with the high density of new houses being built in the surrounding area, led us to a kind of "obsession" with the possibilities of expanding space.

Underlying this question is the importance of "expanding" the outdoor space, an aspect that is particularly relevant given that this is a home set in a semi-rural area, sought after by those who wish to enjoy life in gardens or backyards.

Although it is something of a commonplace, the questions of the "boundary" and the "enclosure" are, in this case, particularly pertinent.

We set out to resolve and clarify the maximum expansion of the habitable enclosure as a whole, both horizontally and vertically, inside and out.

The house is structured over three floors, which relate to one another spatially in section and each of which has its own distinct characteristics.

On level –1, the spaces are arranged (as the regulations require) within the outline of level 0. However, this idea of an "imposed boundary" is questioned through "advances" or "extensions" in the three possible directions (north, east and west), in the form of patios and a swimming pool. This level houses work and support spaces.

On level 0, the boundary of the "enclosure" is expanded and defined by the walls of the plot. The interior space is freely configured. In keeping with the strategy of maximising the presence of landscaped outdoor space, the garage is placed in a "tucked-in" area to the south of the kitchen. All of the home's social spaces are located on this floor.

The upper floor holds the most significant expression of this project. It is configured (up to the maximum limits allowed by the regulations) as a kind of enclosure with opaque outlines, encompassing the bedrooms and their respective patios, which expand the usable space and protect privacy.

On the roof, an accessible terrace finally frees the gaze, opening up a 360º view over the surrounding houses, towards the sea or the magnificent Serra de Sintra.