ARX

The starting point is a plot in Cruz Quebrada, Algés, between Rua Mata de São Mateus to the south and Rua Sara Beirão to the north. The area is characterised by generous detached houses benefiting from excellent southern exposure and extraordinary panoramic views over the Tagus estuary. These qualities, together with the singular geometry and topography of the site, define the main design considerations.

The 1,522 m² trapezoidal plot has a steep north–south slope, with an approximately 7.4 m difference between its highest and lowest points. The terrain is organised into three terraces: the lowest contains a former tennis court; the middle one accommodates a small service building; and the upper terrace is completely undeveloped.

These conditions led to the design of two houses, shaped by an almost obsessive desire to open the views towards the surrounding landscape while making full use of the garden terraces associated with each level. At the same time, the project seeks to protect the privacy of the inhabitants, establishing a balance between intimacy and complete immersion in the landscape.

The two houses are arranged in a V-shaped configuration. Given their proximity, the facing elevation is almost entirely blind, except for a small vertical courtyard. This courtyard brings natural light down to the lower level, containing the garage and service areas, as well as to the circulation spaces. It also accommodates a glazed lift, which preserves the flow of light and, together with the staircase, provides a direct connection from level -1 to the upper terrace.

The result is two twin houses opening onto the landscape in a 270-degree panorama. Their relationship with the surroundings is articulated through individual balconies, defined by angled walls that reflect sunlight and frame views towards different sections of the horizon and the surrounding gardens.

On the northern side, opposite the panoramic view, the retaining walls required to accommodate the different levels of the terrain are used to shape a small courtyard, conceived as an outdoor extension of the kitchen and dining room.

On the social floor, positioned above the garage and service level, a central service core containing storage, bathrooms and pantry, together with the lift and staircase, organises the interior. Around this core, the open-plan kitchen and dining room extend towards the east, north and west, while the main living room faces south towards the river.

The upper floor accommodates the bedrooms. Finally, the roof becomes a large garden terrace and solarium, accompanied by a swimming pool, allowing the inhabitants to enjoy the expansive panorama afforded by the elevated position above the neighbouring plots.