Aguá House by BOLO Arquitetos: A Modernist Retreat by the Sea

Located on Praia do Capricórnio in Caraguatatuba, Brazil, Aguá House is a contemporary summer retreat designed by BOLO Arquitetos. This 180-square-meter residence, completed in 2022, embraces the principles of brutalist architecture while ensuring a strong connection with its natural surroundings. The project harmonizes raw materials, strategic spatial planning, and an innovative layout to create an inviting, low-maintenance family getaway.

Design Concept: Embracing Structural Honesty

The project began with an in-depth analysis of the site—a compact 100-square-meter plot that had been in the clients' family for decades. The objective was to construct a functional and comfortable weekend home that would serve as a gathering place for multiple generations.

To achieve this, BOLO Arquitetos adopted a design approach centered around reinforced concrete, allowing the structure to remain exposed and minimizing its impact on spatial organization. The use of an inverted beam system on the upper floor helped maintain visual continuity and openness. By embracing the raw beauty of materials such as concrete, brick, and wood, the architects highlighted the essence of each element, avoiding excessive finishes.

Materiality and Aesthetic Choices

Aguá House showcases a striking interplay of textures and materials. The perimeter walls and façade are crafted from in-situ cast concrete, complemented by raw brick elements that appear in both the cobogós (ventilated brick screens) and the sculptural spiral staircase leading to the upper floor. Wooden window frames introduce warmth to the structure, while large glass openings maximize natural light and ventilation.

The architects' commitment to material authenticity results in a home that seamlessly blends brutalist and modernist influences. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance—a crucial consideration for a seasonal residence.

Innovative Spatial Configuration

Given the site's constraints and the clients' desire for generous leisure spaces, the architects reimagined the traditional layout of the house. Instead of positioning the living areas on the ground floor, they opted to elevate them to the first floor, reserving the lower level for the private quarters. This inversion enhances privacy while optimizing views of the sea, mountains, and surrounding treetops.

The first floor accommodates four suites, two of which share a bathroom, arranged around a landscaped central courtyard. This design fosters a direct connection with nature, bringing greenery and natural light into the heart of the home. A thoughtfully designed circulation path extends from the entrance to the staircase, ensuring a fluid transition between spaces.

Upper-Level Living: Light, Air, and Panoramic Views

The upper floor serves as the social hub of the house, designed for relaxation and communal gatherings. This expansive space integrates the living room and kitchen, creating an open, airy environment that captures the beauty of the natural landscape. A strategically positioned bathroom with a walk-in shower enhances convenience, while an outdoor terrace bathes in sunlight throughout the day, further reinforcing the home's seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Maximizing Natural Light and Ventilation

A key design priority was to ensure abundant natural light and ventilation throughout the residence. Given the site's limitations, the architects introduced carefully positioned openings and pathways to counterbalance the relatively enclosed structure. The cobogó screens and strategically placed voids enhance airflow, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling and reinforcing the home’s sustainability.

A Sustainable and Timeless Retreat

Aguá House exemplifies a commitment to sustainable, contextually responsive architecture. By utilizing locally sourced materials and prioritizing passive design strategies, the project minimizes its environmental impact while offering a timeless retreat for the family. The house stands as a testament to BOLO Arquitetos' philosophy of designing with integrity, where raw materials and structural clarity take center stage.

Key Features:

• Architects: BOLO Arquitetos
• Lead Architects: Adriano Gaspari, Gustavo Dante, Hector Briqueze, Nicole Avelino
• Location: Praia do Capricórnio, Caraguatatuba, Brazil
• Year: 2022
• Total Area: 180 m²
• Materials Used: Reinforced concrete, raw brick, glass, wood
• Design Highlights: Brutalist influences, inverted spatial configuration, natural ventilation strategies