Dezesseete House: A Modern Residential Renovation in Brasília

Dezessete House, designed by Studio Gontijo Arquitetura in Brasília, Brazil, is a stunning example of modern residential renovation. Originally an existing building, the house underwent a complete transformation to better suit the needs of its occupants while retaining its original structure. The project elegantly redistributes the internal spaces, creating a harmonious blend of functionality, timeless aesthetics, and a strong connection to nature.

The Layout and Design Concept

The main goal of the Dezesseete House renovation was to create a functional yet beautiful space by reimagining the floor plan. The layout is based on an "L"-shaped design, which divides the private and social areas. The private area, including the bedrooms and personal spaces, is positioned on one side of the house, providing privacy and tranquility. The social areas, such as the living room, kitchen, and dining spaces, are strategically placed on the opposite side, extending along the length of the site. This thoughtful design ensures that each area of the house is properly functional and meets the clients’ needs for space and interaction.

The service area is located at the front of the house, cleverly shielded from external visibility by natural wood slatted panels. This allows the home to maintain privacy and aesthetic appeal while optimizing the internal flow.

Materiality: The Role of Wood and Greenery

A defining feature of Dezesseete House is the use of natural materials, especially wood. Wood is a key element in the design, enveloping both the exterior walls and the ceiling of the outdoor spaces. The main facade of the house incorporates wooden panels, while the open-plan gourmet space connects seamlessly with the garden. The rhythmic repetition of wooden beams across the ceiling of the outdoor common areas adds a sense of warmth and texture, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the house.

The connection between architecture and nature is emphasized throughout the design. Greenery plays a pivotal role in blurring the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The house features numerous gardens, including one in the front that highlights a tree in a central position, interacting with the structural elements of the building. The emphasis on landscaping ensures a constant interaction with nature, creating a serene and refreshing environment.

Functional Additions and Family-Oriented Design

The renovation also included the construction of a new block at the rear of the house, designed specifically to meet the needs of the clients’ family. This new space houses a spacious playroom, designed for the couple’s three children. The playroom continues the architectural language of the main house, featuring wood cladding and large glass windows that open to the garden. This connection allows the play area to feel open and connected to nature, offering a free-flowing space that is both functional and enjoyable for the children.

The main aim of the renovation was to ensure that the house would be both practical and timeless. Every aspect of the design, from the layout to the material selection, was carefully chosen to create a space that could evolve with the family while maintaining its elegant, modernist aesthetic.

Harmonizing Rustic and Elegant Elements

The architecture of Dezesseete House successfully combines rustic and elegant elements. The natural materials used throughout the home create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the sleek, modern design adds sophistication and refinement. The modernist influence of Brasília is apparent in the clean lines and geometric forms that define the house, but the careful use of materials and the connection to the natural world bring a softness and warmth that makes the home feel timeless and inviting.

Ultimately, the Dezesseete House renovation creates a balance between form and function, rustic charm and modern elegance. The space feels both contemporary and timeless, making it a beautiful and practical family home that is in harmony with the environment and the surrounding city.

A Modern Residential Renovation Success

Dezessete House is a remarkable example of modern residential renovation. It demonstrates how thoughtful design and material selection can transform an existing structure into a family-friendly, functional home that retains its connection to nature and modern aesthetic. By focusing on both practicality and timeless beauty, the renovation successfully meets the clients’ needs while maintaining the integrity of the original structure. The result is a harmonious blend of rustic charm, modern elegance, and functional design.

All Photographs are works of Edgard Cesar