AEA House by Jacobsen Arquitetura: A Seamless Blend of Nature and Modern Design

Nestled within the lush Atlantic Forest in Angra dos Reis, Brazil, the AEA House by Jacobsen Arquitetura epitomizes the harmony between modern architecture and the natural environment. Completed in 2022, this 19,989-square-foot summer retreat offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding archipelago, home to 365 islands. Designed by Paulo Jacobsen, Bernardo Jacobsen, and Edgar Murata, the project stands as a testament to sustainable and site-sensitive design.

A Tribute to the Atlantic Forest

The AEA House occupies a location of immense natural beauty. Its design respects the site’s topography and integrates seamlessly into its surroundings. The architects chose to build on the site of a previously existing house, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment.

The use of natural materials, particularly wood, plays a vital role in blending the structure with the dense forest. Paulo Jacobsen, renowned for his use of wooden structures, continues his legacy here. Wooden elements, inspired by the ease of transport through coastal waters and their aesthetic warmth, define the architectural language of the house.

Access and Entry

The house can be reached in two distinct ways. Visitors may arrive by boat at the private pier or follow a winding mountain road leading to the house’s upper-level entrance. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a garden featuring native plant species, which enhances the connection between the built environment and the natural landscape.

The entrance area sets the tone for the house's design philosophy. A large rock appears embedded within the wooden floor, emphasizing the integration of natural elements. As one descends to the lower levels, the rock’s full scale becomes apparent, alongside expansive views of the sea.

A Thoughtful Layout

The AEA House features a layout designed to maximize comfort while maintaining a strong connection to its surroundings. The lower floor houses the social spaces, including a living room, gourmet area, dining room, and kitchen. Around the central rock and a reflecting pool, more intimate spaces such as the home theater, playroom, and gym are located.

On the upper level, the private suites are enclosed with muxarabi panels crafted from oxidized wood. These panels not only provide sun protection but also reference the weathered wooden trunks found along the coastline. The balcony of the bedrooms extends the indoor space outward, with a long bench serving both as seating and as a protective barrier.

Natural Elements as Anchors

The AEA House is defined by its relationship with the natural elements surrounding it. Two key features shape the building's character. On one side, a large boulder seemingly grazes the structure, while on the other, a towering ancient tree provides shade near the organically shaped pool. This pool forms a visual transition between the house's linear architecture and the ocean's free-flowing movement.

Landscaping was meticulously designed to connect the forest with the lawn and the house, ensuring a cohesive relationship between all elements of the site.

Structural Innovation

The AEA House is a carefully engineered combination of metal, concrete, and laminated wood. Each material was selected to complement the surrounding environment while ensuring durability and structural integrity. The design prioritizes natural ventilation and light, further reducing the environmental impact.

The organically shaped pool mirrors the natural curves of the ocean waves, softening the rigid geometry of the building. The careful balance between natural and built elements creates a home that feels like an extension of the landscape.

A Legacy of Sustainable Design

The AEA House demonstrates Jacobsen Arquitetura's commitment to sustainability and innovation. The use of local and natural materials, thoughtful integration of natural features, and respect for the surrounding environment make this project an exemplary model of modern tropical architecture.

This retreat is more than a summer home; it is a harmonious blend of modern design and the untouched beauty of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. The AEA House invites its occupants to experience a seamless connection with nature while enjoying the comforts of contemporary living.

All Photographs are work of Fernando Guerra