A space that, as night falls, quietly transforms into a luminous sculpture standing out against the darkened landscape. This weekend retreat invites you to experience a pavilion-like design that harmonises with its environment, revealing a new personality with each passing hour. How does a space like this, so simple yet so dynamic, change the way we interact with the world around us?

Nestled on the tranquil shores of the Jurumirim dam in Avaré, São Paulo, Brazil, Casa PZ - where 'casa' translates to 'home', stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful architectural design in enhancing the human experience within nature. Designed by the Brazilian architecture firm mf+arquitetos, led by Filipi Oliveira and Mariana Oliveira, here is a residence that masterfully balances modern design with the beauty of its natural surroundings; a blend that’s as visually captivating as it is thoughtfully practical.

The architects envisioned a space where nature would not just be a backdrop but an integral part of daily life. This vision is realised through the strategic placement of the T-shaped structure, ensuring that every room offers uninterrupted views of the dam. The house's orientation allows the landscape design to envelop the home, making it impossible to be anywhere inside without feeling connected to the outside world.

The entrance to the private residence is marked by the elegant simplicity of muxarabi doors made from natural wood, which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere from the outset. Traditionally used in Islamic architecture, muxarabi (or masharabi) refers to intricately carved wooden latticework that provides both privacy and ventilation, coalescing functionality with artful design. The contrast between the wood architecture elements and the exposed concrete walls adds a layer of textural richness, making the home feel both grounded and sophisticated. A concrete pergola extends from the entrance, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow throughout the day, a subtle reminder of the passage of time and the natural landscape outside.

Inside, the layout of the house is meticulously organised to separate social and private spaces while maintaining a fluidity that encourages interaction. The heart of the house, the central volume, hosts the main gathering spaces, including the living room, dining area and a gourmet kitchen. Retractable wooden doors, when opened, dissolve the boundary between inside and out, allowing fresh breeze from the dam to sweep through the house.

The gourmet area, positioned at the far end of the central block, is arguably the soul of the house. Designed with leisure in mind, it offers panoramic views of the dam and pool, making it the perfect space for family gatherings and entertaining guests. To the right of the central volume lies the service wing, housing the garage, laundry room, guest rooms and a well-equipped gym. This wing is designed with practicality in mind, ensuring that all the functional needs of the family are met without compromising on comfort or aesthetics. The left wing of the villa design, in contrast, is dedicated to the family’s private quarters. Here, the master suite, children's suites and a cosy TV room are tucked away, offering a quiet retreat from the more social areas of the home. This clever zoning keeps privacy intact while maintaining the home’s open, breezy atmosphere.

In Casa PZ, materials do more than just hold the structure together—they define its character. The Brazilian architects skillfully fuse concrete and wood, not just for durability, but to mirror the natural landscape. The choice of glued laminated timber construction stands out, offering not only structural efficiency but also a nod to sustainability. This innovative method sped up the building process and lessened the environmental impact, aligning with the shared priorities of both the architects and the client. The play of light on the concrete and wood surfaces adds a new dimension to the house, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that beckons the family and their guests to unwind.

The interior design of this residential architecture project is as thoughtfully designed as the structure itself. The choice of furniture designs ranges from linen and leather armchairs to custom-designed pieces. These elements, combined with a carefully curated selection of art and décor, enhance the home's architectural intent. The house bathes in natural light, making it feel vibrant and alive, while at night, it takes on a different character, transforming into a tranquil retreat where the carefully designed lighting enhances its cosy and intimate atmosphere.

mf+arquitetos, known for their commitment to creating spaces that thoughtfully engage with the natural world, have consistently showcased an ethos of simplicity, sustainable design and coexistence in their projects. With an emphasis on clean lines, functional design and a deep respect for the environment, their work often transcends mere aesthetics, focusing on creating meaningful experiences within each space. Casa PZ is a true reflection of these principles, illustrating how the practice’s architectural approach has evolved to embrace a deeper connection with nature while remaining rooted in modernist ideals.

This weekend home isn't just a picturesque retreat; it’s a thoughtful exploration of how architecture can integrate with natural elements, with water being a central guiding force. The water element is not merely scenic; it brings a calming presence to the design, fostering a sense of repose across the space. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the waterfront influences the ambience, a soothing soundscape, that enhances the connection between the home and its natural surroundings. The proximity to the Jurumirim dam is an active participant in the home’s ambience and experience, influencing everything from its orientation to the layout that encourages the flow of natural breezes. Additionally, the open layout and single-volume structure minimise maintenance challenges, allowing the family to enjoy their time here without the burden of extensive upkeep. The architects have crafted a space where minimal architecture and nature coexist, offering a home that is both a sanctuary and a model for sustainable living.

Project Details

Name: Casa PZ
Location: Brazil
Typology: Residential
Architect: mf+arquitetos
Lead Architects: filipi oliveira, mariana oliveira
Design Team: lucas ferrari, dionezio junior, luis felipe, renato ubiali, talita ferracioli, guilherme takahashi, luis fernando.
Collaborators:
Built Area: 1.253,00 sqm
Year of Completion: 2024