AF House by Arquipélago Arquitetos: A Coastal Retreat in Paraty, Brazil

Located on the serene Jabaquara Beach in Paraty, Brazil, AF House by Arquipélago Arquitetos seamlessly integrates contemporary design with the lush coastal landscape. Designed to accommodate an extensive residential program within a compact 230m² layout, the house prioritizes openness, natural light, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

Strategic Layout Maximizing Coastal Views

Situated on a 360m² urban lot, the house is positioned at the rear of the plot to ensure all primary spaces—bedrooms, living room, and kitchen—face the stunning Paraty Bay. This deliberate orientation maximizes the panoramic sea view while freeing up the front of the property for a lush garden, which transitions into a vibrant communal space featuring a soccer field, local dining kiosks, and a scenic mangrove leading to the ocean.

Blending Architecture with Nature

To emphasize seamless indoor-outdoor living, the ground floor extends beyond the covered veranda to incorporate a swimming pool. Slightly elevated from the original land profile, this design choice ensures an uninterrupted view of the horizon while maintaining privacy from the street. A perforated brick wall—a distinctive architectural feature—partially encloses the home, balancing privacy and openness. These horizontally laid bricks allow natural ventilation and filtered sunlight, fostering a dynamic interplay between light and shadow throughout the day.

Sustainable and Local Materiality

AF House embraces regional construction techniques and sustainable materials, incorporating exposed bricks, concrete slabs, and ceramic roofing to establish a timeless aesthetic. The double brick walls not only frame the external structure but also function as thermal regulators, optimizing indoor climate conditions. These walls additionally house vertical infrastructure piping, contributing to the home’s efficiency and reducing the need for invasive modifications.

Harmonizing Regulations with Design

A pergola over the upper veranda subtly reduces the visual impact of the roofline, adhering to local zoning regulations while enhancing architectural fluidity. In the garden, a selection of endemic coastal plant species reinforces the project’s ecological commitment, harmonizing with the native landscape.

AF House stands as a testament to thoughtful contemporary architecture, where sustainable materials, contextual sensitivity, and innovative spatial strategies converge to create an inviting, nature-infused retreat. This Brazilian coastal home embodies the essence of modern living while celebrating the cultural and environmental richness of Paraty.

All Photographs are works of Pedro Napolitano Prata