Casa Renda: The Lace-Inspired Modern Brazilian Home by Fernanda Neiva, Fernanda Palmieri, and Paula Zasnicoff

Casa Renda, designed by Brazilian architects Fernanda Neiva, Fernanda Palmieri, and Paula Zasnicoff, is a striking example of modern residential architecture that seamlessly merges contemporary design with cultural inspiration. The trio, graduates of FAU-USP (School of Architecture and Urbanism, University of São Paulo), began their architectural journey together, collaborating on their final thesis and early professional projects. Life eventually led them to different regions across Brazil and the globe, but in 2019, a long-standing friendship with their client brought them back together, sparking the creation of this exceptional home. The project was meticulously developed under the guidance of Galeria Arquitetos, coordinated by Fernanda Neiva.

Design Concept and Spatial Organization

Casa Renda is conceived around the harmonious integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces, with the central garden acting as the heart of the house. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, perforated façade elements, and the continuity of materials create a visual and functional connection between the interior and exterior. Open-plan living areas, including the kitchen and veranda, seamlessly connect to the garden, promoting natural light, ventilation, and a sense of openness. Private spaces, such as bedrooms and utility areas, are carefully positioned along the periphery to maintain privacy and comfort.

A standout feature is the roof terrace, accessible from the central garden, designed to maximize sunlight and provide a tranquil outdoor retreat. This architectural gesture emphasizes the Brazilian lifestyle's focus on outdoor living, social interaction, and nature.

Materials and Façade Design

Concrete serves as the predominant material throughout Casa Renda, appearing in the exposed structural elements, hand-made cement floor tiles, kitchen worktops, and precast façade panels. The façade draws inspiration from traditional Brazilian lace patterns, translating this cultural motif into a contemporary architectural expression. The woven concrete façade presents a distinctive, textured frontage to the street, giving the home its nickname: The Lace House.

This innovative approach blends modern construction techniques with handcrafted detailing, resulting in a home that is both aesthetically striking and culturally resonant.

Highlights:

• Integration of indoor and outdoor spaces
• Central garden as the focal point of spatial organization
• Private bedroom areas for comfort and tranquility
• Roof terrace maximizing sunlight exposure
• Woven concrete façade inspired by Brazilian lace
• High-quality materials: concrete, wood, precast panels, and artisan finishes

Casa Renda exemplifies how contemporary residential design can honor tradition while embracing modernity, resulting in a unique home that celebrates light, openness, and Brazilian craftsmanship.

All photographs are works of Nelson Kon